NYN | News
The governorate of Shabwah, particularly the Al-Waahidi areas in southeastern Yemen, is witnessing a resurgence of popular activity following the announcement by the Peaceful Karama Movement today of the resumption of its field operations and the organization of escalating marches to demand the rights of local residents, who say they have suffered from marginalization and exclusion for decades, according to a statement issued by the movement.
The statement explained that the movement’s objectives “have always been clear and consistent,” focusing on defending the legitimate rights of the people of the Al-Waahidi areas, “away from any personal interests or gains.” It emphasized that the movement has, throughout the past period, adhered to peaceful and legal means out of respect for official mediations that had promised to address the outstanding issues.
The statement added that locals had temporarily suspended their activities to allow time for the fulfillment of those promises; however, the response from local authorities was, according to the statement, “shocking and insulting,” as the demands were categorically rejected in favor of satisfying limited individual interests. The movement described this as “a disregard for the rights and historical standing of tens of thousands of Al-Waahidi residents.”
The statement went on to describe the authorities’ stance as “not merely a rejection of demands, but an insult to an entire region and a reflection of a mindset rooted in exclusion and marginalization.” It affirmed that the movement is not seeking positions or privileges, but rather legitimate rights representing all the people of the Al-Waahidi areas.
The statement also warned that the authorities’ continued neglect of the demands of resource-producing regions — which account for roughly 60% of Shabwah’s revenues — will not go unanswered. It announced a new wave of peaceful escalation, including organized marches and sit-ins, while maintaining full commitment to the law.
Furthermore, the statement noted that if the authorities persist in their policies of rejection and exclusion, the movement may raise its demands to call for the establishment of an independent governorate named “Balhaf,” enabling the people of the area to manage their own resources and achieve equitable development.
The Karama Movement concluded its statement by stressing that ignoring rights does not create stability, and that justice alone can build trust between the people and the authorities.
