Participants in the gathering condemned the recent decisions to close the offices of the Southern Transitional Council in Aden and prevent its employees from performing their duties. The measures, which included the removal of southern flags and images of President Aidarus al-Zubaidi, triggered a negative reaction in the southern community.
In a final declaration, participants reaffirmed their confidence in President Aidarus al-Zubaidi to lead the upcoming phase, affirming that the Southern Transitional Council is the “political framework representing the Southern people.” They rejected any procedures aimed at excluding the council or undermining its role.
The declaration emphasized adherence to the January 2, 2026 political and constitutional declaration and the Southern National Charter as references for the phase. It also condemned the closure of the council’s offices in Aden, holding “de facto authorities” responsible for the repercussions of such measures.
The participants called for support for serious political dialogue in Aden with international guarantees, with the condition that any final agreement be presented to a popular referendum. They urged the international community and the United Nations to address the issue of the South as a political matter based on the right to self-determination.
Additionally, the statement demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all detainees and forcibly disappeared individuals associated with recent protests and activities.
