The general strike of January 26 and the repression unleashed by the Nouira government signals a major crisis for a regime that for twenty years has been presented as a model of stability and progress by all advocates of imperialism and neocolonialism.
Under the lash of the economic crisis, unemployment, neglect, and growing impoverishment, the exploited masses, led by the working class, have turned out in more and more powerful upsurges that began with economic demands and led to a political confrontation with the regime. The trade-union federation UGTT (General Union of Tunisian Workers), although controlled since its inception by leading figures in the ruling Destour Socialist Party, has had to gradually take its distance from the government and act as a vehicle for mass discontent, to the point of declaring a general strike.
Faced with the working-class upsurge, the regime led by the “Supreme Combatant” has had to shed its mask. So much for paternalism, “liberalism,” and astute maneuvers. The strikers and demonstrators in Tunis and other cities were answered with repression, with the weapons of the police and army, with the ruling party’s shock troops, with provocateurs on the government payroll. A massacre unprecedented in North Africa in the postcolonial era has taken place.
It is urgent to counter the reactionary wave of repression sweeping over the country. We must demand immediate repeal of the state of emergency, the release of all prisoners, respect for all democratic freedoms, and independence and freedom of action for the UGTT. The government and bosses must be compelled to meet the demands that gave rise to the workingclass upsurge and the general strike.
The international workers movement has expressed solidarity with the Tunisian workers movement. Many trade-union federations have condemned the repression against the UGTT, its leaders and activists. They should continue their campaign and refuse to have any relations 226 with the puppets that the government wants to install in place of the jailed leaders.
Actions and campaigns should be undertaken, especially in the countries where immigrant workers and Tunisian students have already taken part in demonstrations
against the murderous Nouira-Bourguiba regime.
For the immediate release of all the prisoners!
For independence of the UGTT!
Down with the repressive Nouira-Bourguiba regime!