Political and tribal figures from the Yemeni governorates of Hadramout and Abyan have emphasized the necessity of active participation in the upcoming Southern-Southern conference to be held in Saudi Arabia. Recent meetings have focused on coordinating efforts to ensure the conference addresses the core issues affecting the region.
In Riyadh, leaders and social figures from Abyan convened to discuss the latest developments in the governorate and outline a vision for the future. According to a statement released after the meeting, participants agreed on key points to ensure fair representation of Abyan’s demands, aiming for just and comprehensive solutions to the southern issue without compromising the region’s interests.
Meanwhile, in Mukalla, the capital of Hadramout, the head of the Hadramout Tribal Alliance, Amr bin Habrish, met with factions of the Southern Movement. He urged them to participate in the conference with a unified Hadrami voice, stressing the importance of unity to protect the region’s interests, reflect the aspirations of its people, and safeguard their legitimate rights.
Bin Habrish affirmed that “Hadramout will not accept a return to centralism in any form, whether from the north or the south.” He emphasized that justice is the true foundation for stability in Yemen and that addressing existing grievances and preventing their recurrence is the only path to achieving security, stability, and development.
In a related development, the Governor of Hadramout, Salem Al-Khanbashi, issued a decree forming a preparatory committee of 16 members representing various components of the governorate. This committee is tasked with preparing Hadramout’s vision for the Southern conference.
Earlier this month, following a request from the head of the Yemeni Presidential Council, Rashad al-Alimi, Saudi Arabia invited all southern components in Yemen to participate in a conference hosted by the Kingdom. The aim is to develop a comprehensive vision for fair solutions to the southern issue. The conference is seen as a critical step towards addressing long-standing grievances and fostering stability in the region.
The seizure of Hadramout by forces of the Southern Transitional Council (STC) in early December represented a significant shift in the country, altering the balance of power after Yemeni government forces, with Saudi support, regained control.
