Speaking out against terrorism in Yemen

As well as maintaining its commitment to nonviolent principles, Yemen’s protest movement has taken courageous steps to denounce the violence of the terrorist group, Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP). Just as the commitment to nonviolence has been largely ignored by world media and politicians, so too has this expression of opposition to terrorism been overlooked. Thankfully, during August Jane Novak reported on a protest against AQAP in Taiz and kept us informed about a seminar held to organise further protests against terrorism.

It is important to note, however, that the popular expression of opposition to terrorism is not new. In November 2009, for instance, the (seemingly now defunct) Yemen Tribune blog reported that tens of thousands of people had attended a protest in Taraba, Hadhramaut, in response to an Al Qaeda attack on local security officials. While the numbers may be hard to verify, the intent is unmistakable. And it isn’t just protesters who are taking a stand. Earlier this year, tribal leaders kicked AQAP off their land.

Further terrorist violence – including suicide bombings – has occurred during the past month, particularly in Yemen’s south. With so many other challenges to contend with, it remains to be seen if Yemenis will have the capacity to again take to the streets to voice their opposition to terrorism. Whether they do or not, they have already demonstrated to the world time and again where they stand.

Elsewhere: James Gundun asks, ‘Can Obama Ignore Anti-AQAP Protests?’