In a surprising move, the Southern Transitional Council (STC) in Yemen has announced its dissolution, effective immediately. Abdulrahman Al-Subaihi, Secretary-General of the STC, made the announcement earlier today, stating that the council and all its affiliated bodies, both domestically and abroad, have been disbanded.
Speaking from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, during a meeting with the STC’s leadership, Al-Subaihi emphasized that this decision was made to safeguard the future of the southern cause and to preserve peace and security in the south and neighboring regions. He affirmed the council’s commitment to achieving the just aspirations of the southern people through participation in a comprehensive Southern conference under the auspices of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
“The continued existence of the STC no longer serves the purpose for which it was established, given the current developments,” Al-Subaihi stated in a televised address. He clarified that the council was formed to serve the interests of the southern people and represent their aspirations, not as a means to power or exclusion.
Al-Subaihi urged all southerners to act responsibly and work towards realizing their collective goals. He also called on prominent figures and leaders in the south to actively engage in the upcoming Southern dialogue conference. Furthermore, he denied any involvement in the recent operations in Hadramaut and Al-Mahra, asserting that they have harmed the southern cause.
The dissolution comes shortly after Saudi Arabia invited all southern factions in Yemen to participate in a conference hosted by the Kingdom, aimed at developing a comprehensive vision for a fair resolution to the southern issue. This invitation followed a request from the Chairman of the Presidential Leadership Council, Rashad al-Alimi, for Riyadh to host the conference, a request that was widely welcomed.
The move signals a significant shift in the political landscape of southern Yemen and raises questions about the future direction of the southern movement. Analysts believe this decision could pave the way for a more unified and inclusive approach to addressing the grievances and aspirations of the southern population.
