Nigerien Workers Mark Labor Day with Focus on Sovereignty and Governance

NIAMEY—Nigerien workers commemorated the 138th anniversary of International Labor Day this Wednesday, focusing on the theme of reclaiming national sovereignty. The day was marked by several rallies organized by trade union centers such as the Democratic Confederation of Workers of Niger (CDTN) and the Intersyndicale des Travailleurs du Niger (ITN) in the capital, Niamey.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the route for this year’s parade was shortened due to a heatwave affecting Niamey. The parade commenced at the Mali Bero interchange and concluded at the Seyni Kountché General Stadium, where the public gathered in significant numbers to support the marching unions. Djibrilla Idrissa, the Secretary General of the CDTN, delivered a speech highlighting the dual commemoration of the progress in Niger and global labor issues. He revisited the July 26, 2023, military coup that ended the country’s democratic process, citing reasons such as insecurity, poor governance, lack of social justice, and illicit enrichment.

Idrissa noted improvements in security since the takeover by the National Council for the Protection of the Fatherland (CNSP), though he acknowledged ongoing terrorist activities, particularly in border regions. He praised the CNSP’s denunciation of various military and mining agreements, urging thorough verification and implementation to avoid past mistakes. Furthermore, Idrissa acknowledged the Transitional Government’s consistency in salary payments but criticized the lack of negotiation rounds with labor unions regarding workers’ grievances and the implementation of previously signed agreements.

The Secretary General also challenged the Transitional Government’s lack of engagement with union organizations and denounced a minister’s violation of the Labor Code, emphasizing the confederation’s commitment to defending labor rights through legal avenues.