The general scene in Yemen is distressing as much as disappointing. Just a few months ago, the country was on the road to what seemed to be a long-awaited recovery. There is a dire need for an overhaul that brings about change, which eventually would usher in stability and progress. Yet the reality today falls short of the least of expectations and aspirations.
After a long period of suffering, waiting and fighting, the people who had taken to the streets of Yemen to protest the ills of the former regime finally got a reason to celebrate. The end of the former rule became a reality.
By all means, this was supposed to be a moment that would change the fate of Yemen — one that inscribed its destiny as a democratic country that abided by the rule of the law and respected the freedoms of the people. At least, these were the aspirations of the thousands who had demonstrated endlessly.
But where is Yemen today? Where does it stand between what the people have paid for dearly as they were carrying out their demonstrations and what has been achieved so far?
Yemen is torn between a number of factors that make its reality grim and difficult. For one thing, the strength of extremist groups — including Al Qaida — has not been weakened. Such groups still wreak havoc with the continuing terror attacks.
In addition, the country is suffering from what the United Nations World Food Programme labels as “food insecurity” – which is the difficulty in finding or being able to afford adequate food. Alarmingly, no less than 23 million people — almost the entire population of the country — are suffering from severe poverty and food shortages. Furthermore, the percentage of people who are classified as severely food insecure has doubled since 2009.
It seems that the road towards a democratic process has gone off track given all that is taking place in Yemen today. What is needed urgently is for the country’s leadership to step in and bring real change for the people.
