Sana’a: Political analysts and economists in Yemen have warned that the country’s “quick” decision to move to federalism could be self-defeating since it is not prepared for the transformation.
Ahmad Hajjar, a government official and economist, observed that the transformation to federalism is costly and the current budget will only be able to deliver less than 50 per cent of the operating expenses of the new system.
Hajjar told Al Masder daily that he recommends taking “gradual” and “ deliberate” steps towards federalism. Hajjar also said the multi-regions system would encounter some economic obstacles such as limited financial resources in some regions and the lack of well-qualified cadres who are able to take responsibility for governing the regions.
Politically, experts say that the growing sectarian tension in the north, secessionists in the south and Al Qaida’s attacks are major obstacles to federalism.
Abdul Bari Taher, an independent political analyst, said the government has put the cart before the horse by endorsing federalism before restoring security across the country.
“The idea of federalism is great since it would put an end to the appalling centralisation that placed wealth and power in the hand of one person,” he said.
He, however, cautioned that “before thinking of federalism, the government should have restored security and stability. It should first stop conflicts and protect its soldiers from systematic attacks.”
Other journalists like Awadh Kashmim, who hails from the south, said there must be “good intentions” from all parties for federalism to succeed in Yemen.
“The solution would require lifting the domination of the centre and accepting the broad participation and giving a chance to the people [in the regions] to solve their problems on their own.
Kashmim warned that continuation of the former regime and its institutions may pose a great danger to the stability that is sought with federalism.
“The former regime’s legacy and its business, military and political alliances who have mutual interests and see that the new situation would eliminate their interests are major threats to the new change.”
