Amid the tensions in Yemen's interim capital Aden rose the name of Abdul Rahman Al-Mahrami, also known as Abou Zaraa, Vice chairman and member of the Presidential Leadership Council, as one of the main figures trying to restore calm in southern Yemen.
He was tasked with imposing security and preventing clashes in Aden, reflecting the confidence he enjoys inside the PLC and his rising role in handling sensitive military files.
Abou Zaraa Al-Mahrami was born in 1980 in the Yafaa region in the Abyan province.
He rose to prominence as a decisive field commander during the war in west Yemen. In a short period of time, he managed to impose himself through the leadership of the southern Giants Brigades, which had turned into a mighty force in combating the Houthi rebels.
In contrast to several military commanders, Abou Zaraa Al-Mahrami was actually involved in ground operations that helped reclaim strategic areas. He consequently gained a military and popular reputation, consolidating his standing.
He was named a member of the PLC in April 2022 during one of the most complicated phases of Yemen's crisis. Since then, he has maintained his image as a disciplined military commander who balances between political and security duties.
In May 2023, he was named Vice President of the Southern Transitional Council (STC), placing him in a prominent position in both the PLC and on the southern scene. He remained committed to the work of the legitimate government and maintaining security.
He has been tasked with imposing security in Aden in wake of the latest tensions with the STC.
People familiar with his work said he is keen on protecting civilians and state institutions and preventing political disputes from turning into armed clashes - a challenging task in a city where weapons are everywhere and tensions are high.
Abou Zaraa Al-Mahrami has also represented Yemen at important regional meetings. He recently met with Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman in Riyadh to discuss the security and political developments in Yemen, reflecting the trust he enjoys among regional partners.