In a concerted effort to empower workers and catalyze social change, a pivotal conference was held on 17 April 2024 at the esteemed Unity House in Beau Bassin. This location, known for its historical significance in the fight for workers’ rights, added weight to the proceedings. The conference had a twofold aim: to ensure widespread awareness of key amendments within the workers’ program and to prepare for the upcoming Labour Day march scheduled for May 2024. Following the internal deliberations, a press conference, presided over by Clency Bibi, was conducted to disseminate the message to the wider populace and encourage active participation in the forthcoming march.

« Li enn moment important pou pays la. Si no pas azir aster, nou ban zenfan pas pour kav rekonet pays la. »

The conference served as a platform for robust discussions and strategic planning, focusing on equipping workers with comprehensive knowledge of the recent amendments to the workers’ program. Participants engaged in dialogue to enhance collective understanding and foster solidarity among workers from diverse sectors.

« Reajustement salarial li coumadire tresor de guerre dans sa election general ki p vini la. »

Despite attempts by some individuals to politicize Labour Day and transform it into a mini-election, our focus remains steadfast on its true essence: advocating for the betterment of workers’ lives. Labour Day, observed on the 1st of May, serves as a vital platform for championing the rights and welfare of laborers worldwide. Rather than viewing it through a political lens, we envision this day as an opportunity to highlight the pressing issues workers face and mobilize for meaningful change. Our emphasis is on solidarity, not electoral gains. On the 1st of May, we stand united in our commitment to improving the conditions and dignity of workers, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are upheld.

“Sa zour la ou p azir coyma travayer. Pas couma elekter.”

In anticipation of the Labour Day march, plans were meticulously laid out, encompassing logistical arrangements, mobilization strategies, and outreach initiatives. The conference allowed organizers to fine-tune their preparations and galvanize support for the upcoming mobilization.

During the conference, members of the audience representing various syndical groups and workers’ unions were given a platform to voice their struggles and elucidate the significance of the proposed amendments. Their firsthand accounts shed light on workers’ daily challenges across different sectors, underscoring the urgency for legislative changes to address these issues. By sharing their experiences and perspectives, they provided invaluable insights into why these amendments safeguard workers’ rights and improve their quality of life.

Comments from the audience:

Ban problem climat et problem manstrual leave pou ban madam li important nou regle zot. Mobiliser ban camarad.

Harselment li enn vrai problem. Nou bizin present dans sa la mars la pou nou kav ammen enn sanzman.

Ena boku difficulté pou kav coz ar ban patron la. Alors nou bizin dibout pou nou meme parski person pas pou debout pou nou.

Amelior qualite condition travail pou tout dimoune li important. Alors nou tou bizin mobiliser.

Communalism ene mari gros probleme. Alors nou bizin dibout pou ki sa probleme la disparet et ki enn sanzman kav arrive.

Nou ban droit sa kamarad. Alors dibouté

The subsequent press conference, chaired by Clency Bibi, was instrumental in amplifying the conference’s message and extending invitations to individuals passionate about effecting positive change. Through media channels and public outreach efforts, the conference organizers sought to rally widespread support and mobilize diverse voices for the cause of workers’ rights and social justice.

“Oken parti politique ban defan travayer. Se sindika kinn ale lagerr pou defan travayer.”

As momentum builds towards Labour Day 2024, the resounding call for solidarity and collective action reverberates, underscoring workers’ unwavering commitment to advocating for a fairer and more equitable society.

« Ou prezans lor koltar ki konte kamarad. Desan lor koltar kapav sanz ou lavi.”

Link to the workers’ program: http://risingocean.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Workers-Programme-Labour-Day-General-election.pdf 

The intervenors at the press conference were : Clency Bibi – President, General Workers Federation | Devanand Ramjuttun – Joint Negotiating Panel, Sugar Industry | Clive Parienne – Union of Private Secondary Education Employees | Stefan Gua – Rezistans ek Alternativ | Dany Marie – Centre for Alternative Research and Studies | Ashok Subron – General Workers Federation | Lall Dewnath – Joint Negotiating Panel, Sugar Industry