The Houthis confiscate the property of the Secretary-General of the Sana'a Conference through a judicial custodian

In a new escalation reflecting its continued policy of suppressing political and party leaders in areas under its control, the Houthi militia, through its so-called "judicial guardian," confiscated properties and assets belonging to the Secretary-General of the General People's Congress Party (Sanaa wing). This measure is part of a systematic series of seizures and confiscations targeting the property of opponents and even political allies who do not pledge absolute loyalty to the group.

The "judicial guardian" mechanism: an arm of legalized plunder

The "judicial custodian" system is one of the most dangerous tools the Houthi group has devised to legitimize the confiscation of private and public funds and property. This mechanism relies on issuing formal orders from the Specialized Criminal Court (which is under their control) on vague charges such as "treason" or "aiding the aggression," thereby appointing a judicial custodian to manage and dispose of these funds. These funds often end up financing the militia's war effort and enriching its leaders.

Targeting context: The General People's Congress is in danger

This incident is not isolated from the broader context of the strained relationship between the Houthis and the General People's Congress party, particularly after the events of December 2017 and the assassination of former President Ali Abdullah Saleh. Since then, the militia has sought to dismantle the party and subject its remaining leaders in Sana'a to house arrest or constant intimidation. Human rights reports indicate that the Houthis have confiscated the homes and assets of hundreds of party leaders and members of parliament in an attempt to eliminate any political influence that could rival their own.

Economic and political dimensions

These practices transcend the personal sphere, posing a blow to the national economy and political environment in Yemen. The confiscation of assets belonging to prominent figures and political personalities leads to:

• The erosion of political life: by impoverishing party leaders and preventing them from engaging in any independent political activity.
• Consolidating the parallel economy: where confiscated assets are transferred to companies and investments belonging to Houthi leaders, thus strengthening their financial influence at the expense of the state.
• Complicating peace efforts: These actions are considered a violation of human rights and an obstacle to building the trust necessary for any future political negotiations.

International and human rights position

Reports issued by the UN Security Council's Panel of Experts have consistently condemned the practices of the "judicial custodian," describing them as an illegal means of seizing the assets of opponents. Observers assert that the continuation of this policy reflects the militia's desire to tighten its iron grip on Sana'a, disregarding the legal and humanitarian consequences for those affected and their families.