APA – Bamako (Mali) – The decision to go on strike will apply throughout the country.
The National Union of Banks and Financial Institutions of Mali (SYNABEF) announced on Wednesday 5 June a work stoppage in banks and other financial services from tomorrow, Thursday 6 June, to Saturday 8 June. The decision is nationwide.
The strike follows the arrest of SYNABEF General Secretary Hamadoun Bah on Wednesday 5 June.
Bah was arrested following a complaint by a trade unionist challenging the current leadership of SYNABEF.
Since taking office, Bah has been the target of much criticism for the strikes and protests organised by his union, which is a strong defender of trade union rights.
The strike at a time of economic hardship in Mali, exacerbated by the approach of the Tabaski holiday, a time when many families incur large debts.
In addition, some workers have not yet received their monthly salaries as banks, under pressure, are experiencing cash shortages, particularly at ATMs.
Bah’s supporters are determined to continue the strike until ‘their leader is immediately released and the charges against him are dropped’.
Some union members have taken a more radical stance, calling for the “removal of the judge” who ordered Mr Bah’s imprisonment.
MD/ac/lb/as/APA