At a time when the citizens of Aden were already suffering from the economic repercussions of rising prices of basic commodities, the recent increase in roti prices came as a severe blow, adding new burdens to an already suffering population. The significant rise in the prices of vegetables, fruits, oil, milk, fish, meat, beans, rice, wheat, fuel, household gas, transportation wages, education costs, electricity and water tariffs, and medicine prices has left the population suffering from little wages. In addition to the deterioration of services, which further exacerbates their problems.

 The shock of the rise in the price of one roti from fifty riyals to seventy riyals made citizens in Aden feel the burden of financial pressures more acutely. While the government was expected to provide support to its citizens, the increase in roti prices only exacerbated the financial burden on families, as small families now need three thousand riyals per day for the roti alone, for three meals.

 While governments around the world often intervene to subsidize bread prices, recognizing the vital role this staple food plays in daily sustenance, the situation in our country paints a very different picture. Instead of supporting bakeries and relieving financial pressure on citizens, the measures taken by the government appear to pose a greater challenge to people's livelihoods. Expectations surrounding a possible change in leadership with Ben Mubarak recently assuming government responsibilities have now given way to deep disappointment as the painful reality unfolds before the people's eyes.

 As the people of Aden face these difficult times, the spiraling cost of roti is a poignant reminder of the hardships faced by ordinary citizens. In a landscape marked by economic crises, dwindling resources, and lack of government support, the burden on families continues to mount, leaving many facing a harsh life.

From Hafez Al-Shajafi