Aden – Prime Minister Salem Saleh bin Buraik has issued urgent directives to suspend all unlawful procedures related to the electronic passport printing tender, warning the Minister of Interior against entering into commitments or contracts outside the framework of the law.

In an official memorandum from the Prime Minister’s Office dated September 18, 2025 (Ref. No. 1442), the government declared that the steps taken by the Ministry of Interior regarding the passport tender were “unauthorized and not previously approved,” stressing that such actions constitute a clear violation of Law No. (23) of 2007 on Tenders and Auctions, as well as the executive regulations issued by Cabinet Resolution No. (7) of 2024.

The Prime Minister emphasized that the Passport Authority is the competent body for such procedures, in coordination with the Ministry of Finance, underscoring the need for strict compliance with existing laws and the limits of ministerial powers.

He further held the Minister of Interior fully legally and financially responsible for any consequences arising from violations of laws and regulations, calling on him to submit results to the competent authorities through official channels.

The memorandum reaffirmed that the government will deal firmly with any transgressions that harm the public interest or conflict with existing laws—sending a clear message of rejection toward unilateral or unauthorized attempts in sovereign matters such as passport issuance.