The Burkinabè trade union world makes its voice heard and does not hide its dissatisfaction with the measures taken by the transitional government. During a meeting of the General Confederation of Workers of Burkina (CGTB), its general secretary, Moussa Diallo, expressed the organization’s concerns and strongly criticized practices deemed “liberticidal”.
In a final press release, the CGTB denounced several decisions taken by the transitional government, which it considers to be abusive. These measures include forced disappearances of citizens, kidnappings perpetrated by armed and hooded individuals, forced recruitment, closures of media outlets and revisions of texts. According to the union, these actions undermine the individual and collective freedoms of Burkinabè people, and these practices have worsened under the government in place.
To express their discontent and denounce these measures, the inter-union is calling for a meeting to be held on October 31, a symbolic date in Burkina Faso, as it marks Martyrs’ Day. It should be remembered that it was this day that led to the fall of former president Blaise Compaoré in 2014, following popular mobilization.
This meeting, which will take place at the Labor Exchange in Ouagadougou, will be an opportunity for unions to make their demands heard and show their determination to defend workers’ rights in the country.
It is essential to emphasize that the voice of the trade union world is essential in a country in political transition, because it represents a legitimate force of protest and can contribute to the establishment of a constructive and fair social dialogue.
The outcome of this meeting and the government’s reactions will be crucial to assess the authorities’ willingness to take into account the concerns of workers and to work for a democratic Burkina Faso that respects the fundamental rights of its citizens.
In conclusion, union mobilization in Burkina Faso reflects the importance of the voice of workers in the democratic process and highlights the concerns linked to measures deemed “liberticidal”. The upcoming meeting is a key moment for unions to assert their demands and defend workers’ rights in the country. It is up to the government to take these concerns into account and engage in constructive social dialogue to meet the population’s expectations.