Yemen’s “Allowance Lists” Scandal: Alimi Forms Special Committee as PM Threatens Resignation

Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council chairman, Dr. Rashad al-Alimi, has approved the formation of a special committee to review and suspend the controversial “allowance lists.” The move came after Prime Minister Salem bin Buraik threatened to resign if the payments continued.

The lists reportedly include hundreds of officials under the internationally recognized government, some of whom receive monthly stipends ranging between $3,000 and $20,000. Analysts estimate the annual cost of these allowances at more than $194 million, describing them as one of the most notorious financial corruption hotspots in Yemen.

The issue of allowances previously led to the dismissal of former Prime Minister Ahmed bin Mubarak, who had demanded an end to foreign currency payments for officials living abroad—except ambassadors, consulate staff, and officially sponsored students. He also insisted salaries should only be paid in Yemeni riyals to those working inside the country.

These developments are part of wider reform efforts aimed at reducing public spending, enhancing transparency, and redirecting resources toward Yemen’s domestic priorities.

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