Job Discussion Forums

[MuscatGary]

The Sultan has just made a tv appearance, looks ok to me: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOLa9wweX7Y&feature=youtu.be

[veiledsentiments]

He has lost a great deal of weight and if you compare his speech style to ten years ago (on other videos), he's sounding tired and not himself. It is sad to see him slowing down so much, but his health has been bad for the last year. BUT, considering the last year, he is looking quite well. The loss of weight was probably good for his diabetes. I just wish for Oman that he would publicly settle the simmering question of his successor.

VS

[Sleepwalker]

My Omani colleagues were pleased to see him but are muted about how he looks.

National Day celebrations are being re-organised as we speak.

[veiledsentiments]

The whisper that it is cancer (colon cancer) is getting louder. Sad to see...

VS

[Tazz]

I have heard rumours from students that the Sultan has a 'secret' son who is to be named as his successor?!!! Not that I put a great deal of faith in the students gossip....given his weakened state of health and reduced powers, wouldn't it make sense that he doesn't publicly declare who his successor will be if the decision is likely to cause conflict ?

[veiledsentiments]

Highly unlikely as even his very short marriage (mere days) was reportedly unconsummated. That sounds like a wishful thinking rumor considering his lack of interest in the whole concept... so to speak.

Personally I think he should declare and be there to smooth the transition. The love and affection the people of Oman feel for him would give it a legitimacy that will not last long after his death. Waiting will make it so much more difficult for the successor.

Rather like the King in Thailand who had been able to temper the public demands for more democracy, but his advanced age and worry about his successor has lessened his powers as has been seen over the last couple years.

VS

[Sleepwalker]

There are many rumours about sons and daughters but I doubt they are true.

He may have cancer but they may have caught it early.

The Sultan has left a name locked in a box in two locations. They will be opened if the Royal Family cannot agree within three days of his demise. During this period, the army will be in charge of the country.

I did note his specific mention of the armed forces in his speech. I suspect he's warning factions but for Oman's sake, I hope he makes a full recovery.

[Mushkilla]