Aden, Yemen – Yemen’s southern provinces witnessed a dangerous escalation on the ground and politically on Friday. This followed mass demonstrations called for by the Southern Transitional Council. The demonstrations ended with injuries in Aden and the issuance of a “defiance statement” from Hadramawt. The statement also rejected the new reality imposed by the legitimate government at the beginning of this month.
Tension in Aden: Gunfire in the parade square
Activists on social media circulated videos and photos documenting heavy gunfire in the parade square in the Khormaksar district of Aden. Field reports indicated that the “Homeland Shield” forces (backed by Saudi Arabia and loyal to the legitimate government) fired live ammunition to disperse the demonstrators. The demonstrators had gathered in response to a call from the head of the Southern Transitional Council, Aidarus al-Zubaidi. These clashes come about a week after the legitimate government forces took control of Aden and the Transitional Council forces withdrew. In this context, the situation is further complicating the security landscape within the interim capital.
Mukalla rises up: “Constitutional Declaration” or Independence
In Hadramawt Governorate, the city of Mukalla witnessed a massive public rally on Thursday. Demonstrators declared their commitment to the Southern Movement and renewed their absolute mandate for Aidarus al-Zubaidi.
The statement issued by the rally categorically rejected the decision to dissolve the Southern Transitional Council, issued from Riyadh. It deemed the decision illegitimate and contrary to the will of the people.
The Hadramawt crowds affirmed their adherence to the provisions of the Constitutional Declaration issued by al-Zubaidi on January 2nd. The rally called on Saudi Arabia to lift restrictions on the Southern delegation in Riyadh and allow them freedom of movement. This came amidst allegations of their detention, which were denied by other leaders. The statement described the initiatives of Presidential Leadership Council Chairman Rashad al-Alimi as hostile to the aspirations of the people of the South.
Warnings about the “Hadrami elite” and the return of terrorism
The statement issued in Mukalla warned against any attempts to dismantle or weaken the Hadrami Elite Forces. It also considered such actions a blatant invitation for the return of terrorist organizations and the forces that exerted influence during the summer of 1994 to the province. Furthermore, it appealed to the international community to intervene and recognize the right of the people of South Yemen to self-determination and the restoration of the Federal State of South Arabia.
Context of the crisis
Southern Yemen has been experiencing political uncertainty since the “Homeland Shield” forces entered Aden on January 7th. This move, backed by Riyadh, aimed to bolster the legitimate government’s control. On the other hand, supporters of the Southern Transitional Council view it as a “new occupation” seeking to undermine their military and political gains. Consequently, the southern population remains on high alert, awaiting further developments.
