Congress Party members are angry about Houthi corruption in Ibb, and public discontent is escalating
In a rare and bold move, a prominent leader in the General People's Congress party in Ibb Governorate broke his silence, expressing growing public anger at the systematic corruption practices of the Houthi group in the areas under its control. This public stance reveals the depth of internal divisions and widespread discontent among the population, even within political circles that were previously allied with the group.
Background of the conflict and the fragile alliance
To understand the dimensions of this event, it is essential to revisit the historical context of the complex relationship between the General People's Congress (GPC) and the Houthi movement. Following their alliance to overthrow the internationally recognized government in 2014, deep-seated disagreements quickly emerged between the two sides, culminating in the assassination of former President Ali Abdullah Saleh, the GPC leader, by the Houthis in December 2017. Since then, GPC members and leaders living in Houthi-controlled areas have faced immense pressure, including exclusion, imprisonment, and enforced silence. Therefore, any public criticism from a GPC figure is considered a dangerous indicator that the tension has reached a point of no return.
Manifestations of corruption in Houthi-controlled areas
The Houthi group engages in numerous forms of corruption, which has become the defining characteristic of its administration of the areas it controls. These practices include imposing illegal levies and taxes on merchants and citizens under various pretexts such as “supporting the war effort,” seizing private and public lands and properties, controlling the black market for oil derivatives and foodstuffs, and looting humanitarian aid and diverting it to its leaders and fighters. These policies have led to a catastrophic deterioration in living conditions and the economy, causing the systematic impoverishment of society, while wealth accumulates in the hands of a new class of warlords affiliated with the group.
Importance and expected effects
This public outcry carries significant implications on several levels. Locally, it may encourage other groups to break the barrier of fear and express their rejection of the Houthis' practices, potentially broadening the scope of popular dissent. Regionally and internationally, this event provides further evidence to the international community and human rights organizations of the Houthi group's repressive and corrupt nature of governance, weakening its position in any future political negotiations. It also exposes the group's internal fragility and confirms that its control is not based on genuine popular support, but rather on military force and a tight security grip. The continuation of this corrupt approach not only prolongs the war but also undermines any chance of achieving a just and lasting peace in Yemen.
