The Platform Komun Syndikal (PKS), a coalition of Mauritian unions, has called for a peaceful march on October 31 to highlight the struggles faced by workers, pensioners, and young people. The march will start at 1 pm in front of the Marie-Reine-de-la-Paix center and proceed to the Jardin de la Compagnie. The unions are seeking to draw attention to issues such as job security, pension concerns, education, and the rising cost of living.
According to Atma Shanto, president of the Fédération des travailleurs unis, the current government has not done enough to address the concerns of workers, and a "thought process" has taken hold in the way the government governs. He emphasized that the PKS will continue to support workers facing difficulties, particularly in education, where some teachers have reported facing threats. Shanto also criticized the treatment of elderly people during activities organized by the Ministry of Social Security.
Jane Ragoo, secretary-general of the Confédération des travailleurs des secteurs public et privé (CTSP), highlighted the various mobilizations that have taken place since the current government came to power. She noted that popular pressure has already led to some concessions, saying, "We have managed to make the government back down." Ragoo listed several challenges, including education, healthcare, employment for foreign workers, and water issues.
The unions are also concerned about the impact of foreign labor on local jobs, as well as issues related to pensions and childcare costs. Reeaz Chuttoo, president of the CTSP, emphasized that the march is a "non-politicized" mobilization, calling on politicians to participate as citizens. He expressed concern about rumors of potential violence but assured that the PKS is committed to a peaceful demonstration.
The education sector, particularly private secondary education, is a major area of concern. Arvind Bhojun, president of the Union of Private Secondary Education Employees, noted that some 12,000 employees could be affected by the closure of three colleges due to declining enrollment. Despite discussions with the Minister of Education, the unions are still awaiting concrete responses.
Haniff Peerun, president of the Mauritius Labour Congress, emphasized the difficulties faced by young graduates in finding employment, as well as the rising cost of living. He stated that "enough is enough," highlighting the need for change. Ashvin Gudday, a negotiator for the General Workers Federation, described the PKS as a necessary "extra-parliamentary opposition" to hold the government accountable.
The PKS is calling on workers, young people, retirees, and families to participate in the march, which promises to be a show of union strength. The unions are urging everyone to come out and demonstrate their support for the cause, emphasizing that the event will be peaceful but determined. The march is set to take place on October 31 at 1 pm in front of the Marie-Reine-de-la-Paix center.
Key points
- The Platform Komun Syndikal is calling for a mass mobilization to address issues with pensions, jobs, and purchasing power.
- The unions are seeking to draw attention to the struggles faced by workers, pensioners, and young people in Mauritius.
- The march on October 31 aims to be a peaceful demonstration of union strength and a call for change.
