The Chairman of the Leadership Council stated that stability in the southern provinces exemplifies a promising Yemeni-Saudi partnership.

President Alimi Emphasizes Political Pluralism as Key to Stability

Political Pluralism as a Foundation for Governance

President Dr. Rashad Mohammed Alimi, head of the Presidential Leadership Council, affirmed that disciplined political pluralism serves as the fundamental guarantee against power monopolization. He stressed that it prevents a return to pre-state models and establishes the foundations for national partnership and good neighborliness, free from exclusion or marginalization.

Impact of Houthi Militias on State Institutions

During a meeting on Wednesday with a delegation from the National Democratic Institute, led by Jeffrey Engleland, the regional director for North Africa and the Middle East, President Alimi highlighted the consequences of the Houthi militia’s war. He noted that this conflict has not only created a power crisis but has also led to the collapse of state institutions that support the political process.

Rebuilding the Political Landscape

The president identified the central challenge as rebuilding the political landscape. He emphasized the need to shift competition from armed conflict and closed ideologies to national programs focused on human welfare and development.

Revitalizing State Institutions

President Alimi stated that the council is actively working to reactivate state institutions within the country. He mentioned the government’s regular operations from the temporary capital, Aden, and the ongoing efforts to unify security and military decisions under the Ministries of Defense and Interior. He stressed that any future political process must rely on state control over weapons, an independent judiciary, and a new constitution that accommodates all changes while ensuring justice and the rule of law.

Disarmament and Political Reform

The president pointed out that any political process must either precede or coincide with disarmament efforts and the dismantling of parallel military structures. He called for the criminalization of racist, sectarian, and regional ideologies in both the constitution and law. He stated, “Simply put, a democratic pluralistic system cannot be built in the presence of a fascist ideology that believes in its divine right to rule over others.”

Long-term Peace and Power Sharing

President Alimi asserted that lasting peace cannot emerge from power-sharing agreements with armed militias. He warned that any ceasefire that fails to address the root causes of the armed Imam project will remain a temporary truce, susceptible to future conflict.

Upcoming Southern Dialogue Conference

The president discussed the ongoing preparations for a Southern Dialogue Conference, sponsored by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He reiterated the state leadership’s full recognition of the just cause of the South and its commitment to a fair resolution, beginning with addressing grievances through a legal and institutional framework to prevent recurrence.

Encouraging Responsible Dialogue

He expressed confidence in the wisdom of Southern forces to engage in organized and responsible dialogue that prioritizes the public interest, unifies visions, prevents monopolization of representation, and integrates outcomes into a comprehensive national path.

Strategic Partnerships for Development

President Alimi emphasized that political processes should not overlook the interests and opportunities available to the Yemeni people amid new developments. He highlighted the promising partnership with Saudi Arabia, which plays a crucial role in protecting civilians and preventing the collapse of state institutions. He noted that the Southern provinces could become a model for stable developmental and security partnerships at all levels, as Yemen’s stability is integral to regional security.

Commitment to State Restoration

He stated, “Therefore, we cannot afford to squander these long-awaited gains on the path to restoring state institutions and integrating into the Gulf system.”

Appreciation for International Support

President Alimi praised the role of the National Democratic Institute over the past years in supporting political dialogues, empowering parties, and enhancing the participation of women and youth. He expressed high appreciation for the institute’s ongoing presence alongside the Yemeni people during their political struggles.

Strengthening Democratic Institutions

The president concluded by asserting that democratic institutions in Yemen are not merely decorative but serve as a cornerstone in efforts to restore the state and prevent the return of various forms of tyranny. He expressed hope for increased support in building the capacities of political parties, empowering youth and women during the transitional phase, and providing guidance in drafting a new constitution and complementary legal and electoral reforms. He emphasized that this unjust war will not last indefinitely, as the will of the Yemeni people can forge victory even in the darkest circumstances, necessitating consideration of the post-war phase and the establishment of desired peace.

Meeting Attendees

The meeting included Dr. Yahya Al-Shaibi, Director of the Presidency Office.

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