Workers’ alliances reject pension reforms

AGEGA leaders threaten prolonged strike

HARIPUR:

The All Government Employees Grand Alliance (AGEGA)’s Haripur chapter has voiced strong opposition to the government’s proposed pension reforms and has warned of an extended strike if their concerns are not addressed.

Leaders of AGEGA convened outside the Haripur Press Club on Friday and argued that it is not the pensions of government employees that strain the government’s finances, but rather the lavish perks enjoyed by bureaucrats that should be curtailed. They emphasised their determination to continue protesting, extending their demonstration from the provincial level to the federal level until the contentious pension reforms plan is shelved.

The leaders further conveyed that the government must promptly recognise their legitimate demands and alleviate the unrest among millions of employees; otherwise, they would be compelled to stage a strike and engage in protests.

Also read: Tiff emerges among AGEGA, APCA leaders

AGEGA Haripur District Chairman Basharat Khan and the head of the Schools Officers Association, along with Vice Chairman Syed Mehmood, APTA President Hussain Shah, SSA President Rizwan Awan, and other representatives, issued a stern warning to the caretaker government and higher authorities.

They urged them not to impose any restrictions on teachers, employees, or pensioners, and not to infringe upon the legitimate rights of the large workforce of government employees.

The leaders pointed out their previous successful protests against the ‘anti-education act’ in 2017 and the issue of the college board of governors. They asserted their unwavering commitment to pursuing their demands, as it pertains to the future of millions of employees and their children. The leaders made it clear that they would not permit anyone to deprive them of their rights. Drawing inspiration from recent protests in Punjab where employees advocated for their rights, they declared their intent to include their children in the protests and not endure any form of cruelty.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 28^th, 2023.