Pakistan Labour Party condemns bill

Issue 

Pakistan Labour Party condemns bill

Following is an abridged version of the text of a statement issued by the general secretary of Pakistan's Labour Party, Farooq Tariq, about the Pakistan government's Fifteenth Amendment Bill.

The Fifteenth Amendment Bill is a new attack on the unity of the working class in Pakistan.

The real aim of the bill is to divert the attention of the masses from the economic crises: the government is facing bankruptcy in September if it does not pay back loan installments that are due.

If the bill is passed, it will be another attack on the rights of minority nationalities, other minorities and workers. The proposed amendment is a direct threat to the functioning of the federation, and to the unity of the working class in all four provinces.

The amendment will be used to undermine the fundamental right of forming trade unions: many more government departments will be declared union-free areas and strikes can be declared un-Islamic. There will be no judicial recourse.

The new amendment will also greatly encourage the sectarian conflict, thus injecting a new division between workers.

The Labour Party warns all trade unions; industrial, public and service workers; and all peasants that this bill is a new plan by the ruling class to divide the working class, the people must oppose it. Workers' and peasants' organisations must take up the issue and organise demonstrations. The Labour Party is organising all of its forces to oppose the bill.

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.