| State should listen to workers' cries | Send to a friend |
| Wednesday, 10 March 2010 11:51 |
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This is the union’s response to what it sees as the government’s mistreatment of workers. So, neither President Jakaya Kikwete nor Prime Minister Mizengo Pinda will grace the May 1 celebrations. What the trade union leaders are saying is that they have for years invited the leaders to the celebrations, but have nothing to show for it. They are accusing the leaders of turning a blind eye to the workers’ suffering. Clearly, these are harsh words, indeed. However, they epitomize the workers’ feelings about officialdom’s lacklustre response to their plight. And we can’t fault them, as life is increasingly becoming unbearable for the majority, as inflation bites and prices of basic goods hit the roof. For many of them, the salaries hardly last a week, and it’s a dogged struggle to the next month. However, on the other end of the scale, they can see those in the upper echelons of their institutions or government ministries leading luxurious lives. They not only drive four-wheel fuel guzzlers, but also live in posh houses and earn salaries more than ten times what the ordinary government worker gets. This is so yet the workers are often exhorted to tighten their belts because these are hard times, indeed! In such a scenario, the Tucta leaders may be justified in arguing that they do not see the need to “invite someone who doesn’t care about us”. The government must take seriously this signal from the workers’ umbrella organisation. It should, in fact, seek out Tucta to see the best way to address this issue. We appreciate that the government has a lot on its hands, and is handicapped by lack of resources. However, it should show more concern and eagerness explain to the workers the prevailing situation. Improving workers’ well being is key to the society we’re striving to build. Add this page to your favorite Social Bookmarking websites           |
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