Ruptly
"Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Aden on Monday to mark the ninth anniversary of the Historic Aden Declaration and renew their mandate for Southern Transitional Council (STC) President Aidarus al-Zoubaidi. Footage shows crowds waving the flags of the People's Democratic Republic of Yemen and carrying portraits of al-Zoubaidi. A large banner could also be seen reading 'Anniversary of the Historic Aden Declaration, May 4, 2017–2026 / Renewing the mandate / People's will / Reclaiming a homeland.' "These million-man crowds came out today to renew the mandate for His Excellency President Aidarus Qassem al-Zoubaidi," said Majed Al-Shuaibi, a protester. "It also confirms to the world that we categorically reject the dissolution of this Council, especially from abroad. We remain committed until a fully sovereign southern state is built." Another demonstrator declared, "We will not accept any political entity other than the Transitional Council led by Aidarus al-Zoubaidi. We tell them that we will not back down and we will dedicate our lives to the Southern cause." STC President Aidarus al-Zoubaidi stated, "We affirm that this occasion is not merely a celebration, but rather a milestone to renew our pledge and shoulder the responsibility toward the aspirations of the people of the South for freedom, dignity, and the building of their independent state." Al-Zoubaidi pointed out the "importance of national awareness at this stage and the preservation of gains," while "rejecting attempts to disrupt the Southern arena or drag it into side conflicts." He also emphasised adherence to the "option of peaceful and conscious resistance against any illegal measures," saying that the political path based on dialogue would ensure "a just solution that reflects the will of the people of the South." "Southern Armed Forces represent the safety valve of the South, [...] played a pivotal role in combating terrorism and protecting security and stability, alongside securing international corridors," the STC president persisted, affirming the progress toward "building a professional national Southern army that represents the state and protects its sovereignty." Furthermore, Al-Zoubaidi condemned the Iranian attacks on Gulf and Arab countries, deeming them "unacceptable and a threat to the security and stability of the region," and asserting his "solidarity with brotherly nations and calling for respect for sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs." The Historic Aden Declaration of May 11, 2017, brought together southern political figures and entities to reorganise representation of the Southern cause, leading to the formation of the STC under al-Zoubaidi's leadership."
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