Hundreds of workers and unionists affiliated with the Algerian General Union of Workers (UGTA) gathered in front of the union's headquarters, reiterating their demand for the resignation of Secretary General Abdelmadjid Sidi Saïd. The protesters, who came from several public companies, chanted slogans against Sidi Saïd, including "Sidi Saïd step down," "The union is not for sale," and "For the departure of Sidi Said and his gang."
The protesters accused Sidi Saïd of having "betrayed the trust of the workers" and called for his immediate departure from the union's national secretariat. They also demanded the recovery of the union, which they claim should defend workers' interests, not those of the patronat. A significant security presence was deployed to prevent the protesters from entering the union's headquarters and marching towards the May 1st square.
Despite Sidi Saïd's announcement that he will not seek a new term, UGTA-affiliated workers continue to maintain pressure on him to resign. The announcement of the UGTA's upcoming congress on June 21 did not deter the protesters, who remain determined to achieve their goal. The workers and unionists insist on the need for a new leadership that will prioritize workers' interests.
The protesters also expressed their opposition to the June 21 congress, which they claim is being imposed upon them. They reiterated their demand for the resignation of the current leadership, which they describe as a "gang." The UGTA, a major union in Algeria, has been at the center of controversy in recent weeks, with many workers calling for reforms and a change in leadership.
The situation remains tense, with workers and unionists vowing to continue their protests until their demands are met. Sidi Saïd's refusal to step down has only strengthened the protesters' resolve, who see him as a symbol of the old system. The UGTA's leadership has a crucial role to play in representing workers' interests in Algeria.
The protests have been marked by a significant security presence, with police deployed to prevent the protesters from marching towards the May 1st square. Despite these measures, the protesters remain determined to make their voices heard. The UGTA's future leadership will likely be shaped by the outcome of these protests and the demands of the workers and unionists.
The UGTA's congress on June 21 will be closely watched, as it may determine the future of the union and its leadership. Workers and unionists have made it clear that they will not back down until their demands are met, and the situation is likely to remain tense in the coming weeks. The protesters' determination has not wavered, and they continue to call for Sidi Saïd's resignation.
Key points
- The protesters are demanding the resignation of UGTA Secretary General Abdelmadjid Sidi Saïd, whom they accuse of betraying workers' trust.
- The protesters are opposed to the UGTA's upcoming congress on June 21, which they claim is being imposed upon them.
- The situation remains tense, with workers and unionists vowing to continue their protests until their demands are met.
