Yemen’s Houthi Militia Continues to Target Activists and Journalists
Yemen’s Houthi militia has once again targeted independent activists and journalists in areas under their control. In the latest incidents, a legal activist was abducted, and a journalist was beaten for questioning a court decision.
Abduction of Judge Abdul Wahab Qatran
On Tuesday, armed Houthis surrounded and stormed the house of Judge Abdul Wahab Qatran in Sanaa’s Al-Qaa neighborhood. They detained the judge and his children after wreaking havoc in the house for hours. Qatran’s son, Mohammed, described the ordeal, stating that they were handcuffed and held inside an airless military vehicle without food or water. While Mohammed and his siblings were eventually released, their father remains kidnapped.
The Houthi militia went to great lengths to frame Qatran, as they were seen photographing a vehicle carrying bottles of alcohol. Mohammed believes they intended to falsely accuse his father of consuming wine.
Outrage from the Judges Club
The Sanaa-based Judges Club strongly condemned the Houthi raid on Qatran’s house and expressed concern for his safety. They called for his immediate release and highlighted the horror experienced by his family.
Assault on Journalist Majili Al-Samadi
In a separate incident, three individuals believed to be associated with the Houthis assaulted journalist Majili Al-Samadi, head of Voice of Yemen radio. The attack occurred outside his home, resulting in damage to his car’s windows. Al-Samadi had criticized a Houthi-run court in Sanaa for dismissing his request to open his private station.
Qatran’s Denouncement of Houthi Attacks
Judge Qatran strongly denounced the Houthis for attacking journalist Al-Samadi. He accused them of suppressing anyone who opposes their rule or demands their rights. Qatran’s post on social media platform X further angered Houthi loyalists, who responded with insults and threats.
Houthi Suppression of Activists and Journalists
The Houthis have faced public pressure since April 2022 to restore services and pay public employees in areas under their control. Despite the influx of revenue from oil and goods ships entering Hodeidah port, they have failed to meet these demands. As a result, they have resorted to silencing activists and kidnapping union leaders.
The militia shut down six radio stations, including Al-Samadi’s Voice of Yemen, after the stations refused to broadcast Houthi propaganda messages. In August 2022, Al-Samadi was assaulted for the first time for criticizing the Houthis’ actions. Last month, a music radio station in Sanaa was also shut down for violating the militia’s restrictions on airing songs or amusement programs.
Continued Attacks on Freedom of Expression
The recent incidents involving the abduction of Judge Qatran and the assault on journalist Al-Samadi highlight the Houthi militia’s ongoing campaign against independent activists and journalists. These attacks aim to suppress dissent and maintain control over areas under their rule.
The international community must condemn these violations of freedom of expression and press freedom. It is crucial to hold the Houthi militia accountable for their actions and ensure the safety and well-being of those targeted.
In conclusion, the Houthi militia’s attacks on activists and journalists in Yemen are a clear violation of human rights. The international community must take a stand against these abuses and work towards a peaceful resolution in Yemen that respects freedom of expression and press freedom.