EAST KURDISTAN, — Despite security measures taken by the government, Workers’ International Day was celebrated in Eastern Kurdistan in various forms.
In Sine, the Workers’ Day protest was held by many despite the widespread military presence. In Seqiz, Meriwan and Nexede many people honoured the day.
In Sine, members of Intelligence and Security organization refused to grant license for holding protests of any kind. The entire city was covered by military units. In several streets and crossroads, in addition to military units, intelligence and security units were present to prevent aggregation of people, especially members of worker’s associations.
The city of Sine is home to many active worker’s syndicates and organizations; hence every year military and security units attempt to prohibit celebration of the day.
Security institutes of Iran have informed the Free Union of Iranian Workers in past that if they celebrate the Workers’ International Day, the consequences will be in fines and arrestment.
In this regards, Khalil Karimi, a Free Union of Iranian Party’s board of director’s member in Sine was summoned by the ministry of Intelligence.
However, despite all the pressures, from 19 O’clock a mass of workers and worker activists gathered at the end of Ghafur (Xefur) Street and rallied toward Ghafur Square.
Workers and Activists were shouting slogans such as: “Food, Home, Freedom!” and “Free Political Prisoners” as they were moving toward Ghafur Square, creating a revolutionary atmosphere while they were cheered by people.
Since military units didn’t expect such a bold move, they arrived at the scene in shock, and asked for backup forces as they attacked the protesters. However, the ceremony was completed before the backup forces arrived at the scene.
According to akhbare-rooz website, on 29th of April 2013 a ceremony was held outside Nexede city by coordination committee to both celebrating the Workers’ Day and assist in creating Workers’ Associations for Nexede.
It’s been reported that in the beginning of the ceremony international anthem was played, followed by one minute silence to respect martyrs of freedom and working class community.
According to reports, worker activists in Meriwan distributed statements in regards to Workers’ International Day and celebrated the day by distributing sweets among construction workers, brick factory workers and aviculture workers.
Worker activists in Bane distributed sweets and tracts among people in their celebration of the day.
In the same day, Seqiz Dam workers celebrated the day by aggregating in their workplace.
Rojhelat.info