Aden, Yemen – The President of the Southern Transitional Council (STC) in Yemen, Aidarous al-Zubaidi, has announced the commencement of a two-year transitional period leading to a referendum on the independence of Southern Yemen. The announcement signals a significant escalation in the long-standing conflict and raises questions about the future of the war-torn nation.
In a political declaration issued by the STC, al-Zubaidi called upon the international community to sponsor what he described as an inclusive political dialogue, culminating in a referendum guaranteeing the right to self-determination through peaceful and transparent mechanisms, with the participation of international observers. He lauded the achievements of southerners in securing and managing their regions, claiming it has ended security threats, combatted smuggling and terrorism, and halted the exploitation of the South’s resources.
Al-Zubaidi asserted that the mass gatherings witnessed across the southern governorates reflect a unified front and a consensus on a more stable future, one that achieves security, prosperity, development, and reconstruction. He stated that the decision to enter the transitional phase stems from a popular mandate, national responsibility, and statements from leaders, elites, and local authorities in the South, as well as an awareness of the risks surrounding the existing political partnership.
The STC president urged the international community to facilitate dialogue between the relevant parties in the South and the North, leading to a clear path and timeline that guarantees the right of the Southern people. This process, he emphasized, should be accompanied by a referendum to exercise the right to self-determination, adhering to internationally recognized standards and practices, and under international supervision and monitoring.
Al-Zubaidi also stressed the importance of state institutions, government bodies, and local authorities fulfilling their duties during the transitional period and prior, focusing on normalizing life, improving services and living conditions, and ensuring the regular payment of salaries. He proposed streamlining revenue collection through the Central Bank in Aden, designating it as an independent central authority.
“The STC extends its hand to all national forces in the North to reach an agreement on the necessary steps,” al-Zubaidi affirmed, signaling a willingness to engage in dialogue despite the push for separation. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether this initiative leads to a peaceful resolution or further fragmentation of Yemen.
