Yemeni government grants Saleh immunity

Yemen’s new National Unity Government approved a draft law granting immunity to President Ali Abdallah Saleh and his aides, which paves the way for his stepping down in implementation of the agreement of the transfer of power, aiming to put an end to the protests held against him. A statement issued through Yemen’s state news agency Saba said that the government approved the draft law which grants Saleh immunity from legal or judicial prosecution, along with his aides in all civil, military, and security organizations in the state. It is noted that Saleh’s sons and siblings hold top posts at the military and security units responsible for killing hundreds of protesters during the 11 months of popular uprising against his regime which lasted 33 years. The news agency added that the National Unity Government referred the draft law to the House of Representatives to resume constitutional measures relevant to it. The Yemeni President signed an agreement under the auspices of the GCC in November, aiming to end the political crisis in Yemen, requiring his resignation and holding early presidential elections on February 21, in return of granting him and his aides political immunity.   The UN High Commissioner of Human Rights (HCHR) denounced the immunity draft law, considering it a legal tool which would prevent prosecuting those who committed international crimes. In addition, protesters expressed their rejection to any immunities or guarantees which stand in the way of prosecuting the Yemeni president.