HTA rejects Riyadh parity deal

HADRAMOUT, Jan. 28 (YPA) – The Saudi=backed Hadramout Tribal Alliance (HTA) declared on Tuesday a firm decision to refuse participation in any new government being formed in Riyadh if it is based on the traditional principle of “geographical parity” between the Yemen’s North and the South.

In a statement, the HTA emphasized the necessity of recognizing Hadramout as an “independent third party.”

The statement said HTA strongly rejected s the criteria currently being used in the Riyadh consultations, stating: “We refuse to participate under this criterion unless Hadramout was recognized as an independent third party. Any arrangements beyond that do not concern us.”

It added that this stance aimed to limit the dominance of certain parties over the “political decision,” noting that the current realities on the ground no longer allow for continuing the approach of parity between the forces aligned with the Saudi-led coalition.

The HTA stressed that any future political settlement should be based on a fair partnership, calling for respect for the positions and sacrifices of the people of Hadramout.

This clearly reflects the province’s aspiration to secure a political influence commensurate with its size, resources, and strategic location.

AA