Sanaa prepares for ‘Yom al-Wilayah’ celebrations as Interior Ministry warns against celebratory gunfire

SANAA, June 03 (YPA) – Preparations are underway in the Yemeni capital, Sanaa, on Wednesday ahead of widespread celebrations and fireworks displays commemorating ‘Yom al-Wilayah’ (the Day of Wilayah), which marks the succession of Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib.

The event’s organizing committee in Sanaa announced that firework displays celebrating the religious occasion are scheduled to commence at 8:00 PM local time.

Interior Ministry Issues Ban on Celebratory Gunfire

In anticipation of the festivities, the Ministry of Interior issued a strict directive urging citizens to refrain from firing live ammunition into the air. The ministry characterized celebratory gunfire as an alien practice that contradicts Yemeni cultural values and misrepresents the nature of the religious occasion.

Authorities emphasized that gunfire poses a direct threat to public safety, endangers civilian lives and property, and disrupts public order. The ministry warned that it would take immediate legal action against violators, calling for public cooperation to ensure the event is marked in a civilized and secure manner.

Cultural and Religious Significance

The occasion, traditionally observed on the 18th of the Islamic lunar month of Thu al-Hijjah, holds deep religious and historical significance for many in Yemen. It commemorates the Prophet Muhammad’s declaration at Ghadir Khumm: “Whosoever’s master I am, this Ali is his master.”

For the local population, the anniversary is viewed as an annual milestone to renew spiritual allegiance. In recent years under the current Sanaa administration, the day has transformed into a massive public and state-backed demonstration, serving to reinforce local religious identity and cultural heritage.

YPA