Aden, Yemen – Several governorates in southern Yemen witnessed widespread popular protests rejecting any political arrangements that might grant the Houthi group influence or a role in governing the south or sharing its resources.
This came after statements by Rashad al-Alimi, head of the Presidential Leadership Council,
which sparked widespread reactions in southern circles.
Gains at the expense of the southern cause
Hundreds gathered in the cities of Aden, Mukalla, Dhale, Abyan, and Shabwa,
raising the flags of South Yemen and banners affirming their rejection of any political settlement.
They believe such a settlement would grant the Houthis gains at the expense of the southern cause.
They also emphasized their commitment to the right of southerners to determine their own political future.
These demonstrations followed statements by Al-Alimi regarding the future of the political process
and the possibility of reaching a comprehensive settlement to end the conflict.
These statements prompted southern forces to warn against any agreements
that might be concluded without considering the demands and positions of the southern people.
The complexities of the Yemeni scene
The protesters stressed the necessity of including southern forces in any negotiations concerning the country’s future.
They also called on the Presidential Leadership Council and the Yemeni government to refrain
from making decisions or entering into agreements that affect the south without national consensus.
These protests come at a time when regional and international efforts to revive the peace process in Yemen are ongoing.
At the same time, disagreements persist among the various parties regarding the future of the political process and power-sharing.
This reflects the complexities of the Yemeni landscape and the continuing challenges facing efforts to end the crisis.
