The Yemeni Street Breaks Free from the Muslim Brotherhood’s Restrictions… What’s the Story?

26th February 2025

2 minutes read

The Yemeni Street Breaks Free from the Muslim Brotherhood’s Restrictions… What’s the Story?

Peaceful protests led by teachers and citizens frustrated by worsening living conditions in the city of Taiz have broken through the restrictions imposed by the Muslim Brotherhood, who have long acted as a barrier against any public movement in Yemen, especially in areas under their control.

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According to observers quoted by the newspaper Al-Amn, the ongoing demonstrations by teachers demanding better working conditions, alongside young protesters denouncing corruption in Taiz, have dealt a significant blow to Yemen’s Muslim Brotherhood. Since 2011, they have maintained a tight grip on public movements, directing them to serve their own political agenda.

In response to the protests, the Muslim Brotherhood, represented by the Al-Islah Party, attempted to suppress the demonstrations by pressuring the Taiz police, which is under their control, to enforce Law No. 29 of 2003 regulating demonstrations and marches. They initially threatened legal action against those who violated the law but later backed down under pressure from political parties and professional unions.

The Taiz police, loyal to the Muslim Brotherhood, initially required protesters to obtain prior security clearance at least three days in advance, specifying the date, time, gathering place, route, objectives, and slogans to be used. This requirement was widely condemned by political parties, which called it a “blatant restriction” on freedom of expression.

The decision sparked widespread outrage, particularly among political parties, which viewed it as a clear violation of the right to free expression and a breach of citizens’ right to peaceful protest without prior authorization.

In response, these political parties called on their supporters to take to the streets in solidarity with the teachers, who are demanding higher wages, timely bonuses, and regular salary payments.

Since January and February, Taiz has witnessed numerous protests and sit-ins, fueled by the deterioration of public services, harsh living conditions, and economic collapse.