The Continued Crisis in the South

REPORTS - two days ago

PLC Failure & an Expected Massive Escalation


South Eye | Report - Exclusive 


The southern liberated governorates are witnessing an unprecedented economic and humanitarian crisis that has reached unbearable levels, pushing millions to the brink of destitution. The continuous collapse of the local currency, coupled with skyrocketing food and fuel prices, has exacerbated the suffering of ordinary citizens. While the war years inflicted immense hardship, the current economic decline, ironically, appears to be inflicting even greater devastation, as livelihoods vanish and the cost of survival soars beyond reach.

At the heart of this crisis lies the alarming depreciation of the Yemeni riyal, which has lost significant value against foreign currencies. This collapse directly translates into inflated costs of essential goods, making basic sustenance a daily struggle. The private sector, once a lifeline for many, is increasingly unable to absorb the economic shock, leading to job losses, stagnant wages, and a further erosion of purchasing power. The already fragile middle class has all but disappeared, while the impoverished majority grows ever more desperate.

Beyond economic turmoil, the failure of public services has deepened the crisis. Electricity and water shortages have become chronic, leaving entire cities in prolonged blackouts while access to clean drinking water remains unreliable. Healthcare facilities are underfunded, understaffed, and lacking basic medical supplies, turning minor illnesses into potential death sentences. Education is in disarray, with unpaid teachers and crumbling infrastructure making it nearly impossible for the next generation to receive quality learning. The situation is reminiscent of post-war collapses seen in states, raising concerns about long-term stability.

Despite these hardships, the Yemeni government, represented by the Presidential Leadership Council and its associated institutions, has proven incapable of implementing effective policies to mitigate the crisis. Public sector salaries remain unpaid for months in several areas, and there appears to be no coherent economic rescue plan. Corruption and mismanagement continue to plague government institutions, preventing meaningful reform efforts. As living conditions worsen, the government’s legitimacy continues to erode, with increasing segments of the population questioning its ability to lead and demanding accountability.

This crisis is not unfolding in a vacuum. It is being actively exploited by forces seeking to undermine southern stability and weaken the political influence of the Southern Transitional Council (STC). The deliberate neglect of the south, despite its vast resources and strategic importance, is fueling discontent, providing an opening for hostile elements to incite unrest and divisions. The STC, which has long advocated for self-governance and economic independence, is being targeted by adversaries who seek to use economic pressure as a means of weakening its influence. The goal appears to be destabilizing southern society from within, using economic deprivation as a tool for political manipulation.

The deteriorating situation raises deep questions about the future of governance in the south. With the state unable to provide essential services, alternative structures of governance could emerge. As there is growing frustration among the southern population, and unless immediate measures are taken to address their grievances, public outrage may escalate into organized civil unrest.

Fadl Al -Ja'adi, STC Presidency Authority Member, Said: "It is truly unfortunate that the liberated governorates are experiencing an unprecedented deterioration in services and a catastrophic economic and living situation that has become unbearable. Most people can no longer afford to provide food for their children due to the collapse of the currency and the skyrocketing prices of essential goods circumstances that were not even witnessed during the past years of war. As a result, the legitimacy of the Presidential Leadership Council and the government is eroding by the day due to their inability to implement any effective solutions."

The international community must acknowledge the severity of this crisis and take proactive steps to prevent further deterioration. Humanitarian aid alone is not a sustainable solution; what is needed is meaningful economic intervention and structural reform. Countries with vested interests in South’s stability, including members of the Arab coalition, must push for transparency, accountability, and tangible measures to revive economic activity in the liberated territories. Addressing PLC' failure and supporting local governance structures are essential components of any viable recovery plan.

The southern people have endured years of conflict, hardship, and broken govermental promises. As their situation worsens, the patience they have shown is wearing thin. If the current trajectory continues unchecked, the region may face a new era of social and political unrest, further complicating efforts to achieve long-term peace and stability. The need for immediate and decisive action has never been more urgent.