The Yemeni government strengthens its presence in the liberated governorates: Dimensions and implications

The internationally recognized Yemeni government continues its intensive efforts to strengthen state presence and consolidate stability in the interim capital, Aden, and the other liberated governorates, in a move aimed at normalizing the general situation and improving the level of services provided to citizens. These efforts come amidst exceptional circumstances facing the country, requiring concerted official and popular efforts to overcome the economic and security challenges left by years of war.

The context of the conflict and the challenges of the current stage

Since the Houthi militia's coup against the state in late 2014 and its takeover of the capital, Sana'a, the political and administrative center of the legitimate government has shifted to Aden, which was declared the country's temporary capital. Since then, the government has faced formidable challenges, including rebuilding state institutions that were systematically destroyed, unifying military and security command, and managing an economy plagued by unprecedented inflation and a plummeting national currency.

Strengthening the government's presence at this time is of paramount importance, especially with the formation of the Presidential Leadership Council, which seeks to unify the anti-coup ranks and work on two parallel tracks: military and political pressure to restore the state, and improving the service model in the liberated areas to be attractive and stable.

The economic and service sector: a top priority

Strengthening the government's presence is directly linked to the economic situation. From its headquarters within Yemen, the government manages monetary policy through the Central Bank in Aden, attempting to curb the collapse of the Yemeni rial against foreign currencies. The services sector, particularly electricity, water, and healthcare, is among the most complex issues requiring a permanent government presence to oversee projects funded by international donors and the Arab Coalition, and to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches those who need it.

Political and international dimensions

Internationally, the presence of the government, with all its institutions, within Yemeni territory is seen as a reassuring message to the international community and UN organizations that the state is capable of exercising its sovereign functions. This presence strengthens the legitimate government's position in any future UN-sponsored peace negotiations, giving it negotiating leverage derived from its actual control and administration of citizens' affairs on the ground, rather than from a remote administration.

In conclusion, the government’s continued strengthening of its institutional influence in the liberated governorates is not a luxury option, but rather an inevitable necessity to save the national economy, provide a minimum standard of living for the Yemeni citizen, and block projects that target the unity and fabric of Yemeni society.