Aden, Yemen – Yemen’s interim capital, Aden, witnessed a massive public gathering on Friday, with tens of thousands of people from the southern governorates participating.
This came as an expression of their support for the Southern Transitional Council and their adherence
to the principles of the “Constitutional Declaration” announced by the Council’s president, Aidarus al-Zubaidi, at the beginning of this year.
This occurred during a sensitive political phase for the southern cause.
Crowds poured into the parade grounds from several governorates, including Dhale, Lahj, and Abyan.
This was in response to a call by al-Zubaidi to reaffirm the southern public’s stance on recent political developments.
Despite attempts by the “Homeland Shield” forces to disperse some protesters
by firing shots into the air, the gathering continued amidst an unprecedentedly large turnout.
Contrary to the will of the people of the South
The participants raised the flags of South Yemen and chanted slogans affirming their rejection of any attempts to dissolve the Southern Transitional Council,
deeming such steps “illegitimate” and contrary to the will of the southern people.
The demonstrators also expressed their rejection of the decisions issued by the head of the Presidential Leadership Council, Rashad al-Alimi.
They further accused these decisions of attempting to circumvent the issue and undermine its legitimacy.
The demonstrators affirmed their commitment to what they described
as the just cause of the South and their categorical rejection of any form of political guardianship.
They also emphasized the right of the people of the South to freely determine their own destiny,
in accordance with their historical and political aspirations.
Launching a transitional phase
Earlier, Aidarus al-Zubaidi had announced the launch of a two-year transitional phase.
This is a prelude to holding a popular referendum to determine the future of the South.
International observers will also be present to ensure integrity and credibility.
According to observers, this large turnout reflects the level of popular support the Southern Transitional Council enjoys.
This comes at a time of escalating political tensions.
This signals a new phase of developments on the Yemeni scene, particularly in the southern governorates.
