Yemen : Mass Rallies in Aden, Mukalla, Seiyun as STC Supporters Reject Guardianship Policies

Aden — Tens of thousands gathered on Saturday in Aden, Mukalla, and Seiyun in response to the Southern Transitional Council’s (STC) call for a “million-man march,” issuing a political statement rejecting any projects aimed at undermining the southern cause, its political leadership, and armed forces.

The statement said the crowds took to the streets to denounce “guardianship projects and collective punishment policies,” as well as what it described as targeting of the STC and its president, Aidarous Qassem al-Zubaidi, alongside attempts to weaken southern forces and cut their allocations.

It criticized deteriorating security, services, and political conditions in the south, citing electricity, water, and public service crises, warning of the consequences for stability in the south and the wider region.

The rallies accused international actors managing the Yemen file of trying to dismantle southern political and social structures, create alternative entities, and target southern leaders through political campaigns and international platforms.

The statement warned that southern rejection “will not remain mere cries in the squares” if current policies continue, urging a course correction and respect for the southern people’s right to determine their future.

It called on the international community to reconsider its approach to Yemen, stressing that southern stability is vital for regional and global security. 

The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of the goal of restoring a fully sovereign southern state, honoring the sacrifices of martyrs and the wounded, and continuing the struggle until the aspirations of the southern people are achieved.