I fully agree with the views of Abdulateef Al-Mulhim as expressed in the article “Yemen: Don’t shoot yourself in the foot” (Feb. 12). The writer has his own way of writing. Using a similar approach, he has beautifully presented the current political situation of Yemen and has come up with the solution to the problems facing the impoverished country. It is true that the people of Yemen must realize the importance of unity. The leaders have recently agreed on the formation of a federation. Will this work? Or, is this an attempt to rule one’s own fiefdom according to his whims and wishes? I don’t see any good coming out of this move. This will further deteriorate the situation. I am not a political pundit but a.m. aware of the political culture of Yemen and the nature of Yemeni society. Unfortunately, at the end of the day the common man will suffer. These leaders will have no problems.

Al-Mulhim has correctly pointed out that it is up to the Yemenis to build their country. For that they must close their ranks and think in the larger interest of the country. It is a difficult thing to achieve. When people are left to struggle for bread and butter and just crave for basic amenities, national interest takes a backseat. One should not blame the people completely. In a country where water resources are depleting at a very fast pace, lawlessness and corruption are on the rise and political or tribal forces are continuously at loggerheads, a common man becomes helpless.

I hope that Yemeni people and leaders read this article and start thinking about their future. It is now or never!

Mohammad Al-Sahfi

Jazan