Barran Press
On November 16, 2024, the Yemeni Journalists' Syndicate condemned the decision to suspend its operations in Aden, labeling it as a repressive measure that follows a systematic targeting of the organization. This targeting allegedly began with the seizure of the syndicate's headquarters in the early months of the war and culminated in its occupation last year with the protection of certain security forces.
In a statement obtained by "Barran Press," the syndicate asserted that the recent actions, including the suspension of activities and threats against its Aden branch head, Mahmoud Thabit, represent an "unconstitutional" approach that fails to adhere to legal or democratic standards.
The syndicate warned that these measures do not reflect any genuine corrective intentions. It stated, “These irresponsible actions are a significant violation of fundamental constitutional principles that protect basic rights and freedoms, recognized in all civilized nations, and are essential to the constitutional and legal framework of the state.”
The syndicate declared its intent to exercise its legal right to defend its organization and the freedom of all civil unions in Yemen. It called on the security authorities in Aden and the legitimate government to restore the syndicate's seized headquarters and halt these regressive trends that conflict with the aspirations of Yemenis.
Additionally, the syndicate urged Aden authorities to ensure the protection of Mahmoud Thabit and other syndicate leaders. It criticized the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor for failing to create the necessary conditions for unions to operate in Aden, the country’s temporary capital, and noted that many unions have been barred from functioning from their offices in the city.
The statement highlighted the armed takeover of official union headquarters by certain powerful factions, including the Yemeni Journalists' Syndicate, the Yemeni Women's Union, and the General Federation of Trade Unions, which has been replaced by a union affiliated with a specific political group.
The syndicate expressed astonishment at the hostility from a ministry within the legitimate government, likening it to actions taken by the Houthi movement against the syndicate in Sana'a. It noted that all parties in the conflict seem to agree in their war against the syndicate and labor rights, which undermines journalists and press freedom in Yemen.
The syndicate reaffirmed its commitment to defending journalists across Yemen, regardless of their affiliations, and emphasized that it will continue its efforts to protect the unity of the syndicate and the labor movement until conditions improve for a general conference that allows members to participate safely and democratically.
The syndicate's statement followed a directive from the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor on November 14, to suspend the syndicate's activities in Aden, citing its failure to rectify its legal status since the city was declared the capital.
The ministry's document, issued by the Director General of the Social Affairs and Labor Office under the ministry (which is under the control of the Southern Transitional Council), indicated that the syndicate had not complied with previous directives to relocate its headquarters to Aden or conduct elections as mandated by law.