Yaounde (National Times)-Trade Union leaders in Cameroon say, they remain resolute to support the government against the forces of distabilisation and entrepreneurs of war threatening the country’s peace and stability.
The Assurances surfaced May 1st as celebrations went underway at the May 20th Boulevard in Yaounde. In speeches at the ceremonial ground before the march pass ritual, the union leaders also raised worries on the plight of employees.
According to the president of the Cameroon United Trade Unions, Essindi Minkoulou, the syndicate reaffirms its commitment to support the government and state institutions despite the multiple challenges.
Essindi condemned external interference in the affairs of Cameroon. He saluted government’s resolve to restore normalcy in the English-speaking and Far North Region of the country. The trade union leader insisted that, Cameroon is one and indivisible despite the challenging times. He however urged government to ensure that, social peace becomes a reality in Cameroon.
Earlier on, Andre Same Seme, president of the Confederation of Trade Unions in Cameroon expressed concerns over the working conditions in the security-threatened regions of the country.
Same challenged the government to review the minimum wage to at least FCFA 60.000 a month. The trade union leader surmised that the current FCFA 36000 minimum wage is not enough for workers to take care of their families.
In both outings, the union leaders commended government’s efforts but condemned malpractices such as workers’ exploitation and the shady deals involved in the recruitment of workers in some state institutions.
Minister Promises More
Labour and Social Security Minister Gregoire Owona in response to the worries raised said, government has taken note . The minister said, constant dialogue will be enhanced to appease the social climate in the country.
The minister condemned the exploitation of workers and other shady practices. He urged workers to denounce such practices at the competent quarters and not only wait for public manifestations to decry such happenstance. According to the minister, Cameroon remains a strong country with opportunities for its labour force.
Owona said for companies and employers of labour in the conflict-t hit Regions of the country, the government is aware of their challenges. The minister encouraged such to stay on promising that, president Biya and the state machinery remains resolute to ensure that the situation returns to normal.
Celebrations in Yaounde rumbled off amid a heavy down pour. Some institutions and workers marched already soaked. The minister and trade union representatives delivered their speeches under heavy rains.
This 133rd edition of the international Labour Day is celebrated under the theme “Uniting workers for social and economic advancement”. Cameroon has been a member of the International Labour Organisation for 52 years.
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