A day after Qassem Askar and Sheikh Hussein bin Shuaib - leaders of the more radical branch of the Southern Secessionist Movement - were arrested by the authorities after they called for their supporters to demonstrate in Aden in favor of secession; two separatists were killed in clashes against security officers.
On the first anniversary of President Abdo Rabbo Mansour Hadi's accession to the presidency - Yemen long serving Vice President was elected President in February 21st, 2012, in a one-candidate elections - both the Harak - Southern Secessionist Movement - and al-Islah - Sunni radical faction - staged opposing rallies in Aden, one professing President Hadi's illegitimacy, the other in support of the transition government.
As both rallies kicked off in Aden, witnessed reported officers fired rounds directly into the crowds, killing two militants.
Separatists such a Hassamn Baoun who have long accused Sana'a central government of repressing "southern thinking" will now likely use the incident to reinforce their call for secession.
Only weeks away from the much awaited National Dialogue Conference - March 18th -, such display of violence is bound to mar negotiations, especially since the southern issue will be a main topic to be discussed by all participating parties.
Residents in al-Mansoura - popular district of Aden - told the Yemen Post they were outraged to see that while the former regime had been "in name" removed the same bullying tactics were still being used against civilian population.
"2011 revolution sought to depose one tyrant ... It looks as if we traded one autocratic regime for another,' said Hassan a shop-keeper.