The local authority in Shabwa Governorate expressed its categorical rejection of the measures taken by the Ministry of Oil and Minerals, which included addressing OMV to name representatives of the government side in the meeting scheduled to be held in Cairo on January 17, 2025.

In a statement to an official source, the local authority expressed its surprise at the formation of the negotiating team without its representation, stressing that the Ministry of Oil and Minerals is fully responsible for any consequences that may result from the company operating the sector disclaiming responsibility, and taking over the sector without fulfilling its obligations.

The local authority demanded the following:

1. Commitment to duties related to environmental protection and community development:

   - Ensuring the continued provision of basic services, including support for students at universities.

   - Covering late amounts owed to contractors and local employees.

2. Implementation of agreed upon obligations:

   - Follow up on the implementation of all obligations that were not previously implemented.

   - Addressing any issues arising from production and exploration activity in the public interest.

The local authority warned that ignoring these demands could lead to serious negative effects on the economic situation and development services in the governorate.

The local authority confirmed its readiness to cooperate in the public interest of Shabwa and the nation, but it will not accept any measures that exclude it from its right to participate effectively in making crucial decisions.