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Yemen’s government reshuffles ministers and commanders after Houthi gains
Yemen’s internationally recognised government has dismissed ministers and military commanders as it tries to respond to Houthi advances, regain lost territory and lift the siege of Taiz. The changes also appear intended to address demands from southern Yemenis for greater representation, as the government relies on southern forces to hold back the Houthis.
A counteroffensive launched on 5 October has failed, and fighting has left thousands dead; Houthi forces were reported to be about 37 miles (60km) from Aden. President Rashad al-Alimi replaced information minister Muammar al-Eryani with Salem al-Awlaki, a former Southern Transitional Council spokesperson, appointed other southerners to ministerial posts and replaced commanders blamed for setbacks. Maj Gen Rashad al-Yousfi was given responsibility for lifting the four-week siege of Taiz, amid tensions between rival government-aligned forces and continued disputes over southern autonomy.
In short
- Yemen’s government has reshuffled ministers and commanders after battlefield setbacks.
- Houthi forces were reported about 37 miles from Aden.
- A new commander has been tasked with lifting Taiz’s four-week siege.
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The case for
Supporters could argue that replacing ministers and commanders is a necessary response to battlefield setbacks and a chance to improve coordination, restore public confidence and pursue the relief of Taiz. Appointing more southerners may also make the government more representative and strengthen cooperation with forces on which it depends to resist Houthi advances.
The case against
Critics could argue that reshuffling officials will not address deeper problems such as divided command, rivalries among government-aligned forces and unresolved disputes over southern autonomy. Changes made under military pressure may also look like political accommodation without a credible plan to regain territory or end the fighting, while further turnover could disrupt an already fragile response.
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Originally published by The Guardian as “Yemen’s president sacks ministers and officers in attempt to turn tide of war”.