Gambia Transport Union President
By Buba Gagigo
The Gambia Transport Union has called off the sit-down strike they began on 12th September 2022.
“This is to inform the public that the entire executive and membership of the General Transport Union has now called off the industrial action embarked upon by the Union on 12th September 2022. This decision has been reached upon intervention by various institutions and individuals,” the Union said in a statement on Thursday.
The statement said that the decision is prompted by the concerns brought forward by certain key stakeholders and the adverse impact of the strike on the lives and livelihoods of the public.
“Our decision is prompted by the concerns brought forward by these key stakeholders (The Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Supreme Islamic Council, National Human Rights Commission, CSOs under the leadership of The Chairman, TANGO, The President of the Gambia Press Union, Peace Ambassadors of The Gambia, etc.). The fact that the strike action continues to adversely impact the lives and livelihoods of the public, particularly our precious customers, and because the transport sector plays a significant role in the socio-economic development of the country,” they said.
It continued that the union was able to reach an agreement with with the government of The Gambia through the Ministry of Transport Works and Infrastructure.
“Today, on the 15th of September 2022 we were able to reach a common ground with the government of The Gambia through the Ministry of Transport Works and Infrastructure. A communiqué has been signed to show the commitment of all parties to ensuring a win-win for all.
“We would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere apology to our esteemed customers for the challenges they underwent over these past few days. We would also like to take this opportunity to assure all drivers that their welfare is the priority of the Union…,” the statement concluded.