Aden, Yemen – Following reports of his escape from Aden, questions are swirling regarding the legal status of Aidarus al-Zubaidi, head of the Southern Transitional Council (STC). Al-Zubaidi’s departure has ignited a debate about whether the Yemeni government will pursue his extradition.
The Saudi-led coalition spokesman confirmed that al-Zubaidi and others fled by sea from Aden, heading towards the self-declared Republic of Somaliland. The coalition’s statement alleges that they disabled identification systems and arrived at the port of Berbera. Further, al-Zubaidi reportedly contacted a UAE official, identified as Major General Awad Saeed Musleh al-Ahbabi, who arranged for a plane to transport them from the region under the supervision of Emirati officers. The coalition highlighted the disabling of tracking systems during the transfer, suggesting a violation of international laws.
The legal ramifications for al-Zubaidi began after Presidential Leadership Council head Rashad al-Alimi dismissed him from his position and accused him of high treason. The accusations include distributing weapons, forming armed groups, and committing violations against civilians, leading to his referral to the Public Prosecutor.
Given his escape, the question now is how Yemen can hold al-Zubaidi accountable through internationally recognized channels. Legal expert Amin al-Khudeiri stated that al-Zubaidi has committed serious crimes against the Yemeni people, including treason and undermining the constitution. He argues that al-Zubaidi must be tried under Yemeni law.
Al-Khudeiri suggests that the Yemeni government, through the Public Prosecutor, should request Interpol to arrest al-Zubaidi and extradite him to Yemen in accordance with Yemeni law and international protocols.
