Salem Al-Khanbashi: The man of political balances in Yemen and the role of Hadramawt
Dr. Salem Ahmed Saeed Al-Khanbashi is one of the most prominent political figures who marked a turning point in the dramatic transformations that Yemen witnessed during the past decade. Al-Khanbashi was not merely a high-ranking government official; rather, his presence at the top of the power structure embodied a complex political equation that attempted to reconcile constitutional legitimacy, southern demands, and the specific entitlements of the strategic Hadramawt Governorate.
Historical and academic background
Before entering the political arena, Al-Khanbashi built a solid academic and administrative foundation, working as a professor at Aden University. This experience instilled in him a calm, analytical perspective that later informed his political performance. His name rose to prominence when he assumed the governorship of Hadramawt Governorate, the largest and wealthiest governorate in Yemen. During this period, he faced numerous development and security challenges at a critical juncture in the country's history, honing his expertise in crisis management and navigating tribal and political tensions.
2018 appointment and turning point
Former President Abd Rabbo Mansour Hadi's 2018 decision to appoint Salem al-Khanbashi as Deputy Prime Minister marked a pivotal turning point in the Yemeni crisis. This appointment came at a highly sensitive time, as there was a pressing need for Hadramawt representation at the highest levels of decision-making to ensure regional and political balance. The decision was seen at the time as an attempt to bridge the gap between the legitimate government and influential southern factions, given al-Khanbashi's relative acceptance among various parties.
The role of the Riyadh Agreement and the southern scene
Al-Khanbashi played a pivotal role behind the scenes of the Riyadh Agreement signed between the Yemeni government and the Southern Transitional Council. As a member of the Southern Transitional Council's presidency and simultaneously Deputy Prime Minister of the legitimate government, al-Khanbashi served as a rare "liaison" capable of navigating complex negotiations. This dual position allowed him to act as a mediator in many rounds of political conflict, attempting to bridge divides and prevent further violence in the liberated governorates.
The strategic importance of Hadhramaut
Salem al-Khanbashi's role cannot be understood in isolation from the significant influence of Hadramawt Governorate. His presence on the scene reflects a local and regional understanding that any comprehensive political settlement in Yemen cannot bypass the voice of Hadramawt. His actions are of paramount importance given Hadramawt's geostrategic location and its oil wealth, making its representation by a shrewd and composed statesman essential for the stability of the Yemeni economy and the region as a whole.
