Aden, Yemen – Thousands of citizens participated in a massive public rally in southern Yemen to renew their popular mandate for the Southern Transitional Council (STC), headed by President Aidarus al-Zubaidi, affirming their commitment to the southern project of restoring an independent federal southern state. The rally, held under the slogan “Steadfastness and Resilience,” is part of a series of ongoing events in governorates such as Hadramawt, Al-Mahra, Lahj (Radfan), Socotra, and Aden. These events were a response to attempts to dissolve the STC or impose foreign control. The marches featured chants and slogans affirming the renewal of the STC’s full mandate and recognizing President Aidarus al-Zubaidi as the legitimate political representative and leader of southern affairs. Participants also emphasized their adherence to the Southern Constitutional Declaration and rejected any foreign interference. Among the most prominent chants were: “The South is our state and Aidarus is our president” and “With our souls, with our blood, we will defend you, O South.”
In statements made by council leader Amr al-Bayd, he affirmed that the southern separatist movement remains alive and popular, despite the military losses it has suffered recently. He added that the council has successfully filled the political and military vacuum in Hadramawt and al-Mahra following the sudden withdrawal of the Presidential Leadership Council. Al-Bayd indicated that the declaration of a southern state was not a sudden development, but rather a popular demand resulting from the council’s control on the ground. He also emphasized that a southern federation is a strategic option for the council within its project for a southern state.
These events come within the context of strengthening southern unity and resilience in the face of political and military pressures. They also come in response to any attempts to weaken the council or impose northern leadership on the south. Al-Baidh also noted that the council maintains its relations with Saudi Arabia and poses no threat to it. He denied any connection to detention centers or violations against local residents. It is worth noting that previous events witnessed a large public turnout in Aden, Mukalla, Sayhut, Socotra, and Lahj. Attendees affirmed their commitment to the political path of the Southern Transitional Council and the project of a southern federal state.
