Southern protests against appointing al-Maqdashi as defense minister

LAHJJ, March 8 (YPA) – Sabaiha tribes in Yemen’ southern province of Lahjj on Thursday condemned the appointment of Maj. Gen. Mohammed Al-Maqdashi to carry out duties of former defense minister Maj. Gen. Mahmoud Al-Subaihi, who is detained by Sanaa authorities, Yemen Press Agency’s reporter said.

A statement, which was issued by the tribes after a meeting held on Wednesday, criticized the non-announced decision issued on February 26 by Riyadh-based resigned president Abd Rabu Mansour Hadi to appoint Maj. Gen. Al-Maqdashi, who is loyal to Saudi-led coalition, as acting defense minister.

Sabaiha tribes, to which the former defense minister Al-Subaihi belongs, demanded Hadi and his government to exert efforts to release Al-Subaihi.

AM/bam