In a strategic shift to stabilize Yemen amidst ongoing divisions, the Saudi-backed Presidential Leadership Council (PLC) has unveiled a new cabinet after protracted discussions in Riyadh. This cabinet, featuring a blend of political affiliations and professional expertise, signifies an effort to consolidate power and restore governance in a nation struggling with fragmentation. As Yemen grapples with humanitarian crises, the cabinet’s formation is viewed as both a challenge and an opportunity for collaborative governance, potentially setting the stage for enhanced political unity in the region.
After weeks of consultations in Riyadh, the Saudi-backed Presidential Leadership Council (PLC), recognized internationally as Yemen’s governing body, has announced the formation of a new cabinet which showcases a diversity of political and regional affiliations. This cabinet, which was announced on Friday, comes in the wake of the recent disbandment of the Southern Transitional Council (STC) and the withdrawal of United Arab Emirates forces from southern Yemen. The STC, which had previously attempted to seize control over two provinces bordering Saudi Arabia, provoked a military response from Riyadh. These unfolding events have underscored the complex and often strained relations between Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
The cabinet’s announcement has elicited mixed reactions among Yemenis. While some observers view it as an encouraging step towards re-establishing governmental authority, others criticize it as merely a redistribution of power among competing factions. The newly formed cabinet consists of 35 members—10 more than its predecessor—representing a wide array of professional backgrounds, including administration, economics, law, and academia.
Yaseen Al-Tamimi, a Yemeni political researcher, noted that the size of the government reflects a strategy of “appeasement,” aiming to ensure various groups and regions are adequately represented. Despite the potential fiscal strain that comes with such a large cabinet, Al-Tamimi asserts that this approach may be necessary under current circumstances to unify disparate political factions around a common goal.
Prime Minister Shaya Mohsen al-Zindani emphasized the new government’s objectives of enhancing living conditions for Yemenis and combating corruption, with an eye toward countering Houthi control and restoring state institutions. The PLC has been actively managing southern Yemen, while northern regions remain under the control of the Iran-aligned Houthi group, which has sidelined Yemen’s internationally recognized government since its takeover of the capital, Sanaa, in 2014.
Expressing cautious optimism, Taiz-based journalist Mohammed Al-Samei described the newly appointed ministers as capable individuals, asserting that the cabinet’s success will hinge upon political unity among its members. He noted the critical role of continued financial support from Saudi Arabia, especially in light of the urgent need to address rampant service deficiencies and improve the welfare of Yemeni citizens.
A timely signal of progress in governance, this cabinet formation also features enhanced representation of women, with three women now holding significant ministerial positions. Activists and civil society members have welcomed this move, viewing it as a crucial marker of political progress in a country where women’s roles have historically been marginalized.
The public response to the cabinet remains mixed in southern Yemen, a region where separatist sentiments run high. Local tribal groups have voiced their discontent, criticizing the government’s formation as failing to address core issues of governance and representation. Amidst ongoing tensions, the PLC’s efforts face scrutiny as it seeks stabilization within Yemen’s complex socio-political landscape.
While the cabinet reflects a diverse coalition, unifying Yemen amidst prolonged strife will undoubtedly pose significant challenges. As various factions assess the new government’s actions, the restoration of national unity remains a pressing issue, with the populace keenly observing how the elected officials can foster collaboration and infrastructure development that benefits all citizens.
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