Aden, Yemen – The city of Ataq, the administrative capital of Shabwa Governorate, witnessed massive public demonstrations on Wednesday, the largest in years. Thousands of residents from across the governorate and its districts gathered in the main square. The event was described as a “Day of Empowerment and Pride,” renewing their pledge to continue the struggle until the restoration of a fully sovereign South Arabian state.
Revolutionary momentum and demands for a “first statement”
From early morning, large crowds flocked to the heart of Ataq, waving the flags of South Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The demonstrators chanted slogans that reverberated throughout the city. They called on Commander Aidarus al-Zubaidi to issue the first official declaration of independence. Among the most prominent chants was: “Aidarus, declare it a state… and with independence, we will end the cycle.”
The participants expressed their deep gratitude to the UAE, describing it as a “true ally” that stood with the people of southern Yemen during its darkest hours, particularly in securing the province, clearing it of terrorist groups, and establishing security and military foundations.
Escalation against “legitimacy” and rejection of pressure
Today’s demonstration was marked by a clear escalation of tensions against the legitimate government. Protesters chanted slogans attacking President Rashad al-Alimi, accusing him of “treason” and succumbing to external pressures aimed at disarming the South or circumventing the aspirations of its people.
This popular anger comes as a reaction to recent tensions and attempts to curtail the influence of southern forces in some border areas.
The South is on the verge of a new phase
This popular momentum in Shabwa coincided with rapid developments on the ground in December 2025. Most notably, the Southern Transitional Council forces consolidated their positions in Hadramawt and Al-Mahra, effectively placing the entire southern region under their control.
Calls for secession intensified from official institutions in Aden. There is widespread optimism that 2026 will be the year of “victory and official empowerment.”
A message from the sit-in square
The event’s organizing committee affirmed in its closing statement that “the people of the South are mighty and great, and will accept nothing less than independence as their homeland.” It also noted that the images of the crowds in Ataq today send a clear message both domestically and internationally. The committee emphasized that the will of the people is invincible, and that Shabwa will remain the bulwark of the southern project.
Activists shared photos and videos on social media documenting the massive crowds that filled the sit-in square. This scene reflects the widespread popular support for the option of restoring the state and upholding the southern identity.
