YouSaid · the spoken record

Benomar

lines on the record: 117
first: 2012-05-29
most recent: 2017-03-09
sittings or episodes: 7
sources: un-security-council

Every line below is reproduced as it was said and linked to the record it came from. Nothing here is summarised or generated. Directory · Search · Corrections

“Over the past six months, 565 delegates, representing a wide cross-section of Yemeni society, have engaged in constructive, open and substantive deliberations on the key challenges facing the country. The focus on principal and controversial issues relevant to Yemen's governance have laid the foundation for a new social contract and a legal framework based on dignity, equality, human rights and the rule of law. In fact, the work of the National Dialogue is nearly 90 per cent complete. Six of the nine working groups have completed their work. Taken together, the recommendations developed during the dialogue provide a blueprint for building a more peaceful, just and prosperous Yemen. They include measures to ensure more open, accountable governance; greater participation of women in decision-making; and improved protection of human rights.”
2013-09-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7037 (2013) · source
“The National Dialogue Conference, the first ever exercise of its kind in Yemen, and indeed in the region, has given rise to a peaceful, inclusive and meaningful dialogue amongst diverse actors, bringing in new actors to the political process such as youth, women, civil society representatives, the Houthi movement and the Hiraak southern movement. The Conference has not only provided the opportunity for delegates from previously marginalized groups to participate in serious and deliberative discussions about the future of Yemen, but has also convened former parties to conflict to negotiate solutions and address historical grievances in order to move towards a brighter and democratic future for all Yemenis. The Dialogue has made extraordinary progress since it was launched on 18 March.”
2013-09-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7037 (2013) · source
“Following a month in Yemen on my twenty-third mission, I have just returned to New York in order to address this Council. I left Sana'a in the middle of facilitating talks on the southern question - a thorny issue on which agreement has proved elusive thus far. It is paramount to underscore to the Council that the transition process in Yemen has reached a critical juncture. While the historic National Dialogue Conference is on its way to concluding its work with far-reaching recommendations to guide Yemen's future course, the country is facing serious political, economic, humanitarian and security challenges, and key issues have yet to be resolved. Nevertheless, there are achievements to be celebrated in Yemen.”
2013-09-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7037 (2013) · source
“In addition, I want to thank the European Union, the Friends of Yemen and the active diplomatic community in Sana'a. Together, we must do everything possible to ensure that the progress we have seen in the National Dialogue and other areas will lead to meaningful changes in security, governance and development, and to concrete improvements in the lives of all Yemenis towards a more peaceful, stable, democratic and prosperous future in which human rights are protected by the rule of law. The Yemeni people are demonstrating that they deserve no less.”
2013-06-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6976 (2013) · source
“In that regard, I would like to pay tribute to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It has been the largest contributor and the first to deliver. I hope others will follow suit. This is the time to help Yemen by delivering on pledges and supporting the transition in every way. On the Government side, key reforms need to be completed as envisaged in the Mutual Accountability Framework. Yemen remains a priority for the Secretary- General, and I will remain fully engaged with all sides to assist them along the way. I commend President Mansour for his leadership and the efforts of the Government of National Reconciliation led by Prime Minister Basendwah. The Yemeni people are counting on the Security Council to continue speaking in one voice in support of the transition. I commend the contributions and support of the Gulf Cooperation Council.”
2013-06-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6976 (2013) · source
“Perhaps the most important ingredient for a successful transition is the persistence of all those involved. Experience shows that there is no off-the-shelf recipe, perfect formula or predestined outcome. Yemen is its own unique country and its people have their own rich history and complex dimensions. A new dynamic is emerging in Yemen with the new inclusive politics. The cooperation of all Yemeni factions is critical, and this cooperation is not always forthcoming. In tackling its own difficult political situation, Yemen needs all the support of its friends. Unfortunately, despite substantial pledges of financial contributions through the Friends of Yemen process, so far very little of that has materialized in actual transfers, outside of the significant Saudi contribution.”
2013-06-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6976 (2013) · source
“In all my consultations with political leaders, I have reiterated that the only way to a peaceful, stable and prosperous Yemen is through the National Dialogue and the transition process. All Yemenis have a solemn responsibility to advance their legitimate interests and aspirations through the process, in line with relevant Security Council resolutions and the Transition Agreement. Yemenis have embarked on an extraordinary course based on an agreed road map. They deserve to be supported and are counting on the international community, especially the Council, to fully understand the importance of continuing to accompany them through the entire transition process, to meet the challenges and to deliver all available political and financial support.”
2013-06-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6976 (2013) · source
“Sabotage attacks on electricity lines have increased, causing misery and anger throughout the country. Families are being plunged into darkness and unbearable heat. I have witnessed people's resulting frustration, exhaustion and increasing anger. Last week, I spoke to many people in the city of Hudaydah, which has seen frequent protests in recent months. There and in many parts around the country, patience is wearing thin. Attacks on oil and gas pipelines also continue. The interruption of Yemen's energy exports and constant repairs of its electricity lines are costing Yemen hundreds ofmillions of dollars. While the perpetrators of the sabotage are said to be known, impunity prevails. The people of Yemen are demanding justice. Those responsible for these crimes must be brought to account.”
2013-06-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6976 (2013) · source
“On the other hand, General People's Congress leaders are opposed to any change in appointments, which they view as contrary to the GCC initiative. Critical steps have been taken to restructure the armed forces. Many of the military commanders who played major roles in the violent clashes of 2011 have been removed from their posts or reassigned outside of the military. A new structure for the military is being implemented, including the establishment of seven military regions. Both the Republican Guard and the First Armoured Division have been dissolved and their units integrated into the new regional structure. Despite these substantial moves, much remains to be done to ensure the professionalization of the armed forces. Let us make no mistake - there are those who wish to undermine the transition.”
2013-06-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6976 (2013) · source
“The electoral commission has already begun preparations for the electoral process, including steps to create a new biometric voter registry. Registration is scheduled to begin in September. The timeline leaves no room for any delays. In order to ensure the success of the electoral and voter registration process, close cooperation and coordination will be critical among the political parties, the donor community and the Government. Political parties of the former opposition have expressed concern that local authorities, most governors, security chiefs and electoral staff were all appointed under the former regime and are linked to the former ruling party. Members of the former opposition are demanding that action be taken to build confidence in the electoral process.”
2013-06-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6976 (2013) · source
“The humanitarian crisis in Yemen continues unabated, with more than half of Yemen's population in need of humanitarian assistance in terms of food, health care, safe water and sanitation, and more than 1 million children suffer from acute malnutrition. Meanwhile, as stability has improved, 90 per cent of those displaced by fighting in southern Yemen have returned to their homes. In northern Yemen, however, prospects for the return of 300,000 internally displaced persons remain poor, and their basic needs are acute. Despite the gravity of the situation, the humanitarian response plan is only 30 per cent funded to date. Despite the aforementioned challenges, the political transition in Yemen continues largely on course.”
2013-06-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6976 (2013) · source
“Unfortunately, the partisan war continues to play out in the media. Misinformation, fabrication and incitement to violence are rife. It is time for politicians to stop instrumentalizing the media. A media truce is badly needed. Other serious challenges weigh heavily on the transition. The security situation remains fragile in many parts of the country. Despite all efforts to counter Al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula, it remains a lethal threat. Most recently, Al-Qaida has been trying to establish a foothold in Hadramawt, with a view to retaking control of that region. Despite the progress made in the political process, there is ongoing instability. Arms continue to be smuggled into Yemen, although several shipments were recently intercepted. Key political factions remained armed and appear to be massing more weapons.”
2013-06-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6976 (2013) · source
“The two commissions are collecting complaints and related submissions, but they need far greater resources to accomplish their tasks and deliver effective remedies. Moreover, without further confidence-building measures by the Government or tangible improvement in people's daily lives, the voices of discontent will grow louder, narrowing the space for dialogue. It goes without saying that the only peaceful route to progress of any kind is through open dialogue and, most importantly, by addressing the legacy of the past. The Government has yet to meet its obligation to establish a commission of inquiry into the events of 2011 or adopt a law on transitional justice. Only with critical steps like those can Yemenis ensure a path to national reconciliation and embrace a new Yemen.”
2013-06-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6976 (2013) · source
“In its first plenary, the NDC called for a committee to be set up to reach out to southern leaders. It is important for that to occur. In the South, the streets are heating up. The resentment pent up during more than two decades of unaddressed grievances and systematic marginalization is reaching a tipping point. Southerners have grown wary of promises unmet. Since February, there has been a significant increase in the frequency and number of demonstrators pouring into the streets. Organized acts of civil disobedience have been observed weekly, sometimes resulting in injuries and deaths. The establishment of two commissions to address the unlawful or illegitimate seizure of property and unjust dismissals from the military and civil services was an important first step in addressing main grievances.”
2013-06-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6976 (2013) · source
“The new Constitution will be confirmed by a referendum, followed by general elections for a new Government that will enjoy full popular legitimacy. We understand that there are no guarantees for what lies ahead. It is an undertaking of great hope in a fragile environment, where a range of perspectives and diverse interests are seeking to realize a new and better order. National Dialogue will need to find a consensual settlement to the question of the South in order to develop the foundations of a new Constitution. That is being addressed by a dedicated working group with a specific composition weighted in favour of the southern movement, Hiraak. They will soon begin to debate proposals on the status of the South and a new State structure for Yemen. Yet some Hiraak remain outside the process.”
2013-06-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6976 (2013) · source
“Collectively, they have visited 18 governorates and spoken to over 12,500 people of all ages and backgrounds, including members of local authorities, non-governmental organizations, labour unions, and women's and youth groups. On one of my visits, a woman told me that my presence had broken the wall of fear. In 2011, it would have been unthinkable for a delegation comprised of women and young people to be welcomed at the headquarters of an intelligence agency. As President Mansour has remarked, we are engaged in more than a political transition; we are witnessing a transformation of the political culture. The National Dialogue that is now under way will be followed by a constitution-drafting process. The Government of Yemen is committed to making the process fully transparent and inclusive.”
2013-06-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6976 (2013) · source
“The next and final session of the plenary and working groups will be critical to reaching agreement on the principles and main contours of a future Constitution. I am pleased to note that the Dialogue is extending well beyond the Conference. Men and women in Yemen are engaged in discussions and debates about the problems of their country and its possible future. People are participating in seminars, round tables and open tents put up in town squares. Developments within the National Dialogue Conference working groups are discussed daily in television and radio programmes, newspapers and new media. In the past few weeks, the working groups have begun their outreach to citizens across various parts of the country.”
2013-06-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6976 (2013) · source
“Going forward, the representatives will still have to reach a consensus on some major issues, including the structure of the State, the system of Government and the issues regarding the South and Sa'ada. That work will be substantially assisted by the recent establishment of the National Dialogue Consensus Committee, tasked with harmonizing and reconciling the various recommendations and assisting in the reaching of consensus. My team and other contributors have been working closely with the Conference bodies to share the full range of international experience, expertise and facilitation. While we have no recipe for resolving Yemen's many challenges, sharing comparative experiences from other country situations has enabled the representatives to make more informed decisions as they explore different options.”
2013-06-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6976 (2013) · source
“As may be expected with such diverse and varied groups, which include political opponents and even enemies, it has been difficult to surmount injuries and grievances, and good will has been tested. There are still deep divisions in the working groups, such as those on Sa'ada and the South. They require careful facilitation and a demonstration of the greatest possible good will on all sides. I am pleased to report, however, that progress has been made overall. The majority of the working groups have submitted their reports to the second plenary session. More than 100 recommendations, many involving constitutional human rights guarantees, have been submitted for adoption. Despite the deep divisions in the Sa'ada group, it has succeeded in arriving at a consensus on the roots of the conflict.”
2013-06-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6976 (2013) · source
“I regret to inform the Council that a clash erupted between security forces and Ansar Allah demonstrators outside the National Security Bureau in Sana'a, resulting in several deaths and dozens of injuries. Yemen is nonetheless the only country in the region to emerge from the cycle of violence with a negotiated peace agreement that includes a clear road map and timeline for a broad-based democratic transition. The Government and people of Yemen are to be congratulated for standing by their words despite the challenges, and we urge them to stay the course. Over the past few weeks, the representatives have split up into nine working groups to discuss the major issues facing the country, including the long-standing conflicts between North and South.”
2013-06-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6976 (2013) · source
“Yemen is in the throes of its transition. A few days ago, I sat beside President Abdrabuh Mansour Hadi Mansour and the Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Mr. AbdulIatifbin Rashid AI-Zayani, to witness the 565 representatives to the National Dialogue Conference (NDC) celebrate the halfway mark of their deliberations with the launch of their second plenary session. The representatives came from all the country's major political groups, including women and young people, and together they are shaping the future of their country. In a country awash with arms and a history of conflict, such an inclusive dialogue is a great achievement. It demonstrates the Yemeni people's commitment to choosing dialogue over violence and consensus over division. But Sunday's sad incident shows that the transition is delicate.”
2013-06-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6976 (2013) · source
“I would also like to reiterate the importance of delivering in a timely fashion on the pledges that Yemen's partners have made in the meetings of the Friends of Yemen in support of Yemen's economic recovery.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“I am very pleased to see the Security Council speaking with one voice in support of the Yemeni transition. The National Dialogue definitely represents the beginning of a new Yemen. It provides an opportunity to broaden the political process, ensuring inclusion by allowing Yemenis, men and women, from north to south, from across the political spectrum, to engage in dialogue and collectively shape the future of their country. Let us continue our innovative cooperation in support of Yemenis in their efforts to forge ahead. We have all emphasized the importance of a timely start to the National Dialogue. In that regard, it will be important for Yemen's partners to contribute financially to the United Nations trust fund that has been established to support the National Dialogue.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“I would also like to pay tribute to Yemen's political leaders, who have had the courage to pull their country from the abyss; Yemeni leaders who negotiated face to face, constructively, in my presence in November in Sana'a, and who concluded an agreement that made this unique, peaceful transition possible. Yemenis have developed, through a Yemeni-led process, a Yemeni road map for change and recovery. Our role was, and continues to be, to support their efforts and facilitate agreement at their request, with Yemenis always in the lead. I am pleased to see Security Council members unanimously commending the leadership and efforts of President Abdrabuh Mansour Hadi Mansour. He has led the way with strong and effective stewardship, steering the country towards a more stable, prosperous and bright future.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“Mr. Benomar: As we heard today, there is resounding international support for the remarkable efforts made and led by the Yemeni people to move their country forward. I would like to reiterate that the transition in Yemen is largely on track. Yes, there are challenges in the security, economic and humanitarian fields, but the transition is moving forward. I would like to make special mention of the young people who courageously took to the streets, opening the way for the people's aspirations to be realized. We should not forget how we got here. It all started with young people peacefully demanding change. I am pleased to see Security Council members acknowledging the role they played and their commitment to supporting the people's aspirations.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“As the Secretary-General observed during his visit to the country two weeks ago, Yemeni men and women have armed themselves instead with the principles of wisdom, mutual respect and peaceful interaction, and have thus avoided the abyss of civil strife. Let us continue our work together to support the profound transformation that the country is now undertaking.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“It is a transition that offers an opportunity for meaningful participation by all - men, women, young and old. And it is a transition that offers a genuine opportunity to unlock the potential that we all see in Yemen. Yet, while there are tremendous challenges, I am convinced that Yemen has the potential to be a prosperous country, one that can become stable and governed according to the genuine will and aspirations of its population. Change in the region has all too often been accompanied by sacrifices that should not have been necessary and that we cannot ignore. The Yemenis have shown us, however, that the time of the gun as a tool for answering the legitimate aspirations of citizens has passed and that a peaceful transformation can emerge from the ashes of conflict.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“Many Yemenis expect the Security Council to keep a careful watch on the spoilers' actions and to hold them to account. We will continue to work closely with members of the Security Council, the Gulf Cooperation Council, the European Union and other international partners, in particular with the active diplomatic community in Sana'a, to support Yemen's transition. We count on the continued consensus in the Security Council, which has played a crucial role in supporting a peaceful transition in Yemen, to keep the transition on track to deliver within the agreed timeline. We are all determined to continue supporting a transition that is unique in the region, one that is based on a clear road map. The transition enjoys the overwhelming endorsement and support of the population.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“There is a strong sense among Yemenis that the transition will remain in suspension in the absence of reconciliation efforts, including restitution or compensation for victims as well as guarantees against recurrence and an end to impunity. With those aims in mind, we hope that an amended draft law on transitional justice and national reconciliation will be adopted by consensus. The transition is threatened by those who have still not understood that change must occur now. Spoilers of all sorts have not given up. They remain anxious to impede the transition and to profit from instability. In the past few days, Yemenis have once again been left in darkness without electricity. Oil and gas pipelines continue to be subject to attack, causing the Yemeni treasury losses amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“We have now established a multi-donor trust fund to channel international support for the process in a coordinated fashion and to encourage all donors to contribute so as to ensure the timely launch of an effective National Dialogue Conference. Our assistance will continue through the period of the constitution-drafting process and the holding of elections. I am pleased to report that a new electoral commission has been established by presidential decree. In order to keep within the transition timeline, it will be critical for the new commission to focus on creating a new voter registry. The road towards new elections remains long and difficult. For the country to move forward, a true reckoning with past injustices, as well as steps to heal old wounds, are essential.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“I am pleased that, with that last contentious issue resolved, the committee's long hours and efforts are coming to a conclusion. The fruits of their efforts will soon be seen in the delivery ofa final report and other elements finalizing the rules and structure of the Conference. Fully consistent with United Nations standards, we have been successful in supporting the demands of local women's groups that women should constitute at least 30 per cent of those taking part in the National Dialogue. We have been actively supporting preparations for the National Dialogue through initial funding from the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“It has been a great inspiration to see youth, women, civil society and representatives of political parties, along with representatives from the south and of the Al-Houthis, participating constructively within the committee. Indeed, the diverse composition and deliberative style of work of the committee, often with a good spirit resulting from the genuine commitment of the participants, have helped them reach decisions based on consensus and compromise. A few days ago, the committee became deadlocked over the issue of representation and the allocation of seats at the upcoming Conference. At their request, I put forward ideas to help the National Dialogue process move forward, while stressing that there is no one ideal formula that could satisfy all stakeholders.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“The continuous engagement of Yemen's development partners, together with the establishment of a new intra-governmental coordinating body to support the implementation of the pledges, will help channel funds effectively, so that Yemenis can start seeing an improvement in their daily lives. The upcoming National Dialogue provides an opportunity for Yemenis to build a future that meets the aspirations of all. In that regard, the preparatory committee for the National Dialogue, as an all- inclusive body, may serve as the crucible for the new Yemen. My team and I have spent many long days and hours working with the committee.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“The 2012 Yemen Humanitarian Response Plan, which requires $585 million dollars, is only 57 per cent funded. That leaves a funding gap of more than $250 million. On the economic front, there are modest signs of progress. Inflation is decreasing and the decline in economic activity has slowed. The exchange rate, which fluctuated during 2011, has now stabilized and reached the same levels as before the crisis. The momentum of Yemen's transition and recovery must be sustained with strong support from the international community, especially its regional partners. Through meetings in Riyadh and in New York, Yemen's partners have confirmed their commitment by pledging more than $7.5 billion to help Yemen with its economic recovery.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“Concrete progress with regard to those two matters would provide an enabling environment for a constructive start to the National Dialogue. Yemen's humanitarian situation remains in acute crisis. Our humanitarian colleagues and workers tell us that nearly half the population of Yemen are food insecure, with an alarming number living on the edge of starvation. A quarter of a million children are severely malnourished and at risk of dying without proper nutrition interventions. Access to clean water eludes more than half the population, and basic health care remains an aspiration for nearly a quarter of the population. Struggling to provide basic services, Yemen is nonetheless one of the most generous refugee-hosting countries, with more than 230,000 refugees and 500,000 internally displaced persons.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“Years of empty promises have deepened resentments and radicalized some in the movement toward a maximalist agenda for a separate State. In my outreach to Hiraak leaders in Aden and Cairo, I explained to them that the National Dialogue provided an opportunity to address the southern question through dialogue and compromise, and in accordance with Security Council resolutions. 1 urged them to renounce violence and to participate in the process with no preconditions. I also urged the Government to take confidence-building measures to address the grievances of southerners - of those who were unjustly dismissed from the civil service or discharged from the military in the aftermath of the 1994 war, as well as those whose land and other properties were confiscated.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“What many politicians fail to realize is that the political landscape is changing, with prospects for shifting alliances. They continue to view the situation with a perspective locked in the past and in static alliances, rather than looking ahead to the future and to new realignments. Unrest in the south has its roots in the marginalization and discrimination of southerners that has taken place since unification, including their perceived lack of access to resources and opportunities. Long-standing grievances have left many in the south feeling excluded. Since 2007, southerners have mobilized to demand equal access to employment and Government services, land reform and a certain degree of local autonomy. That movement, known as the Hiraak, began as a rights-based movement demanding equality under the rule oflaw.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“Disputes over civil service appointments are just one example of the issues polarizing the two sides: the Genereal People's Congress (GPC) feels that it is being unfairly targeted for removal, while the former opposition, which is now in the Government, complains of insufficient representation and remains adamant in seeking appointments for key positions. While both sides signed on to take part in a Government of National Unity, their war continues through the media. Partisan reporting by media outlets owned by each side continues to inflame an already acrimonious and tense relationship. Former President Saleh remains active as the leader of the GPC party- and often acts as the leader of the opposition, demonizing the Government of National Unity - despite it being half-composed of his own party and allies.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“The continuous spate of terrorist attacks against Government targets in Sana'a is evidence of that development, including last week's abhorrent killing of a Saudi military attache. In terms of governance, one year into the transition, it is clear that the honeymoon period is over. Yemenis now expect the Government to deliver concrete results - to provide better security for the nation and basic social services. Coalition Governments are, however, often the product of unhappy relationships and are bound together in unnatural partnerships. In this case, the distrust between the two principal political blocs that constitute the Government of National Unity has never dissipated and remains entrenched.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“However, the formidable task of integrating the military and security forces under one command will remain a serious challenge during the transition, and will require comprehensive, systemic institutional reform. State authority remains limited in parts of the country. Clashes between the Houthis and Salafists and tribal groups associated with the Islah party have left dozens of people dead in the north. The country remains awash with arms, with new shipments still reportedly coming in. Terrorism remains a serious threat. In June, Government forces under President Mansour's leadership were able to dislodge Al-Qaida elements from areas that had fallen under its control. However, that has led Al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula to desert the open areas and instead disperse and infiltrate major cities.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“First, there is the difficult issue of restructuring the military. The armed forces remain divided between two sides. One camp, the powerful Republican Guards, is led by the former President's son, and the other, the 1st Armoured Division, is led by General Ali Mohsen, who broke from the regime during last year's uprising. Corruption remains widespread throughout the institution. A system of patronage favours loyalty to military leaders and not the State. Some top military leaders are publicly engaged in business and politics. Army commanders are able to engage in murky business dealings, including the smuggling of subsidized fuel, inflating the numbers of those in service and pocketing the excess income from ghost positions. President Mansour has taken initial and courageous steps to address military reform.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“In February 2012, the second phase of the transition was ushered in when President Mansour was elected by an overwhelming majority, in a poll that was at the same time a kind of referendum on the November agreement and on the transition itself. Today, one year later, an air of normality has taken hold in most parts of the country. I wish to take this opportunity to commend President Mansour for his leadership. I also commend the efforts of Prime Minister Basendwah's Government, which have allowed the country to move forward. The fight for control ofthe cities by rival militias has ended, with freedom of movement restored throughout major urban centres. However, we cannot overlook the fact that the road ahead remains long and arduous and that Yemen continues to face grave challenges on multiple fronts.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“We made sure the following elements were included in the agreement: a path for fundamental reforms in the practice of governance and redress for the wrongs of the past; recognition of the role of youth and a clear path for their participation in the transition and the realization of their aspirations; a focus on political inclusion that could give an opportunity for the people of Yemen to shape their country's future and establish a new constitutional order; and the full participation of women throughout the entirety of the process. Through that framework, the handover of power to a Government of National Unity took place successfully.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“A Government of National Unity would exercise power during a two-year transition phase, during which the military and security forces would be restructured under a unified command, a National Dialogue Conference leading to a constitution-draft process would be held, the resulting draft constitution would be approved by referendum and, finally, a fresh set of elections would be set for February 2014.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“In the end, after six intensive trips to Yemen, we managed to find a way forward and reach an agreement, building on resolution 2014 (2011) adopted in October 2011, which called for a political settlement, and on the tremendous efforts of the GCC. The Transition Agreement, which we named the Implementation Mechanism of the GCC initiative, was signed on 23 November 2011. It engaged the former regime and opposition in a clear process for a transition to good democratic governance. The Agreement went far beyond simply replacing one individual or governing party with another. Rather than resigning, President Saleh agreed to transfer his powers to his deputy and to make way for early presidential elections. All sides agreed to support a consensus candidate who commanded the trust and respect of all.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“I went to the north of the country, where armed conflict persists and armed clashes still occur. I was also in the south, Where the future unity of the country remains an open question. During this period, most Yemenis have been living in darkness, suffering from shortages in basic food supplies and cooking fuel. Moreover, we all observed with increasing alarm how Al-Qaida managed to expand its influence, at one point gaining control over significant swathes of territory in the south. Conflict and insecurity prevailed, and there was a real threat that the situation would degenerate into a full-scale civil war. During that period of protracted stalemate, the Secretary-General took the initiative to utilize his good offices to help resolve the deadlock when the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) initiative failed to be implemented.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“Yemen has just witnessed a historic milestone. On 23 November, it marked the first anniversary of the signing of its Peace and Transition Agreement. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon personally attended the ceremony to commemorate that achievement. At that time, he assured the people of Yemen of the full support of the United Nations for their peaceful transition. During the preceding months, most people would not have believed such an agreement possible. Indeed, during that period, in Yemen, I saw a nation in turmoil and a State on the verge of collapse. I saw the capital city, Sana'a, divided and under artillery fire, making life for the civilian population unbearable. I saw and was among demonstrators calling for change, as, for months, they camped out in tents on the streets and squares of the capital and other major cities.”
2012-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6878 (2012) · source
“Resolution 2014 (2011) is clear in this regard in that it commits all Yemeni sides to play a full and constructive role in implementing the transition agreement. Those who do not live up to this commitment should be prepared to be held to account by the Yemeni people and the Security Council. The Secretary-General remains concerned about efforts to undermine Yemen's transition. He has asked me to continue to exercise his good offices, working closely with members of the Security Council, the Gulf Cooperation Council and other international partners to facilitate the effective implementation of Yemen's transition agreement as a model for peaceful change that could offer valuable lessons for other situations in the region.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6776 (2012) · source
“While demonstrations continue to take place, youth, civil society, women's groups and emerging political parties have shifted their focus from contestation to preparatory efforts and initiatives for the national dialogue process and participation in the political process. In conclusion, let me reiterate that, while Yemen's transition remains largely on track, it cannot take place under the shadow of continued military threats. If legitimate governance is to take hold, the Yemeni people must be able to see that those who hold legitimate authority are in a position to exercise their powers effectively, and those who encourage sabotage and obstruction from behind the scenes must know that they are being observed, that they will be held accountable and that international patience is starting to wear thin.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6776 (2012) · source
“As stipulated in the transition agreement, the draft should now be submitted to the Prime Minister and the President for their decision. In April, the Council of Ministers adopted a decision to set up an independent national human rights institution and requested that the Ministry of Human Rights follow up the decision and prepare the necessary draft legislation. This is a positive step and will require considerable support from the United Nations and international donors. President Mansour and the Government of national unity, led by Prime Minister Basendwah, are steadily making progress in moving the country forward and realizing the young people's aspirations to change. They deserve the Council's continuing support.”
2012-05-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6776 (2012) · source