Aden, Yemen – The Yemeni political scene has witnessed a pivotal development that could reshape the region’s political landscape. Several ministers in the internationally recognized government, speaking from the interim capital Aden, have declared their explicit support for the declaration of a “Southern State.” This move reflects an institutional alignment of the government behind the leadership of the Southern Transitional Council.
A coordinated ministerial move and a pledge of continuity
Five key ministries have announced their full support for this move, confirming their administrative and operational readiness to implement the declaration of independence. These ministries are the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism; the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor; the Ministry of Civil Service and Insurance; the Ministry of Water and Environment; and the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Fisheries.
In simultaneous statements, these ministries emphasized their support for the political leadership headed by Major General Aidarus Qasim al-Zubaidi, while committing to ensuring the continued operation of state institutions and the provision of services to citizens during this transitional phase. This is to guarantee an orderly transition that does not disrupt public service.
Observers believe this simultaneous ministerial agreement represents official support within Aden for the declaration of a southern state. It also reflects administrative and institutional readiness to operate according to the requirements of the next phase. This strengthens the chances of an orderly transition without disrupting the public sector.
What is the future of the South?
In a comment to Voice of Emirates, Saleh Abu Awadhal, head of the Eighth Day Foundation for Media and Studies, said that the events confirm the Aden government’s declaration of its full support for the steps taken by the head of the Southern Transitional Council. He noted that this was followed by a series of coordinated announcements issued by local authorities in several governorates, starting in Aden and extending to the Socotra archipelago.
Abu Awadhal added that these moves cannot be considered sudden or spontaneous, but rather represent the culmination of a political process that began with the establishment of the Southern Transitional Council. He pointed out that participation in the government came as part of a well-thought-out plan and in consultation with the Arab Coalition led by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
He explained that the move towards independence is a strategic national choice and, at the same time, a regional interest. He emphasized that what happened cannot be described as a coup or a schism, because the ministers supporting the declaration of a southern state are leaders affiliated with the Southern Transitional Council and hold their government positions within the framework of the existing partnership.
International and regional anticipation
Observers believe this “ministerial alignment” lends official legitimacy to the declaration of a southern state from within the government institutions in Aden. This new political reality presents the international community with new challenges.
Attention is now focused on regional and international reactions. The impact of this move on the future of the overall political process in Yemen and the stalled peace efforts is also being closely watched.
