Yemen's Leadership Faces Turmoil as Prime Minister Steps Down Amid Reform Deadlock

Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak has resigned as Yemen’s prime minister, citing an inability to implement critical reforms and execute a cabinet reshuffle, underscoring deepening fractures within the country’s internationally recognised government. His resignation, submitted to Presidential Leadership Council head Rashad al-Alimi, was swiftly followed by the appointment of Finance Minister Salem Saleh Bin Braik as his successor.

Bin Mubarak, appointed in February 2024, had sought to overhaul the cabinet by removing 12 ministers, a move blocked by the PLC. This impasse highlighted growing tensions between Bin Mubarak and Al-Alimi, particularly over the prime minister’s efforts to combat corruption and address Yemen’s deteriorating public services. The capital Aden has experienced prolonged power outages, exacerbating public dissatisfaction.

The PLC, established in 2022 to unify anti-Houthi factions, is increasingly divided. One bloc aligns with the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council, led by Aidarous al-Zubaidi, while another supports Saudi-aligned figures, including Al-Alimi and Marib Governor Sultan al-Aradah. Analysts suggest Bin Mubarak became a scapegoat for the government's failure to address economic challenges, including inflation and infrastructure collapse.

Bin Mubarak’s tenure was marked by efforts to implement anti-corruption measures and stabilize the economy. However, his initiatives faced resistance within the government, and his attempts to assert authority were undermined by internal power struggles. His resignation reflects the broader challenges facing Yemen’s leadership amid ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises.

The appointment of Bin Braik as prime minister comes at a time when Yemen's economy is in freefall, with the riyal reaching record lows against the US dollar. The country remains divided, with Houthi rebels controlling significant territory, and the internationally recognised government struggling to maintain order and provide basic services. The leadership transition raises questions about the government's ability to implement reforms and navigate the complex political landscape.