The end of the Hadi era in Yemen: repercussions and challenges of the new phase

In a surprising move that reshaped the Yemeni political landscape, President Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi announced in April 2022 the transfer of his full powers to a presidential leadership council, thus bringing to a close a decade-long political career marked by significant transformations and during which Yemen experienced one of its most challenging periods in history. This decision was not merely a farewell to a political figure, but rather a turning point aimed at unifying the anti-Houthi forces and opening new avenues for a political solution.

Historical context: From deputy to president in the midst of the revolution

Hadi rose to power in February 2012 as a consensus president, succeeding the late Ali Abdullah Saleh, under the Gulf Cooperation Council initiative, which aimed to end a massive popular uprising that erupted in 2011 as part of the Arab Spring. His election, as the sole candidate in a largely symbolic election, was intended to lead a two-year transitional period, during which a comprehensive national dialogue would be launched and a new constitution drafted. Hopes were high that Hadi would guide Yemen toward a more stable and democratic future, but his path has been fraught with challenges from day one.

A Presidency in the Eye of the Storm: Successive Challenges and Crises

Hadi's rule faced formidable challenges, including the growing influence of al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, the escalating separatist movement in the south, and, most importantly, the military expansion of the Houthi movement (Ansar Allah). The conflict reached its peak in September 2014 when the Houthis seized the capital, Sana'a, and placed President Hadi under house arrest in early 2015. Hadi later managed to escape to Aden, which he declared the temporary capital, and from there he requested military intervention from the Arab coalition led by Saudi Arabia. This intervention occurred in March 2015, plunging Yemen into a devastating civil war that continues to this day.

The importance of the event and its expected impact

The decision to transfer power to the Presidential Leadership Council, which includes figures representing various anti-Houthi forces, came as a strategic step with multiple dimensions:

• Domestically, the primary objective was to bridge the divide and unify rival factions within the government camp, such as the Southern Transitional Council and Tariq Saleh's forces, under a single command structure. This unification was believed to strengthen the internationally recognized government's military and negotiating position in any future peace talks.
• Regionally, the decision reflected a shift in the strategy of the Arab coalition, particularly Saudi Arabia and the UAE, towards seeking a more cohesive and effective leadership structure capable of better managing the conflict and potentially paving the way for a political settlement. The announcement coincided with a substantial economic support package provided by the two countries to the new council.
• Internationally, the formation of the Presidential Council was widely welcomed by the United Nations, the United States, and other international powers, who considered it a positive and important step toward ending the war. The Council is seen as a more representative body that can engage seriously in UN-sponsored peace negotiations.

In conclusion, Hadi's departure marks the end of a complex chapter in Yemen's history and the beginning of a new one whose contours remain unclear. His legacy is inextricably linked to an incomplete transition and a devastating war, but his recent decision to establish a Presidential Leadership Council may open a window of opportunity, however fraught with risk, for rebuilding the state and achieving the desired peace.