Dakar, Senegal – A dispute between workers at Senegal’s Ministry of Energy, Petroleum and Mines and the government is escalating as promises of reinstatement following previous dismissals remain unfulfilled. The Collective of Employees in Cessation of Activity alleges a breach of a social stability pact, raising concerns about labor rights and government accountability in the West African nation[[2]]. With planned protests blocked by authorities and a January deadline looming, the workers are now seeking intervention from the International Labour Association and pursuing legal avenues[[3]]. This situation underscores ongoing tensions regarding employment security within senegal’s key energy sector[[1]].
Dakar, Senegal – Workers at Senegal’s Ministry of Energy, Petroleum and Mines are escalating their dispute with the government after planned protests were blocked and promises of reinstatement remain unfulfilled, according to a statement released Friday, January 16.
The Collective of Employees in Cessation of Activity alleges the government is refusing to rehire 44 dismissed workers despite prior commitments from President Macky Sall and the Prime Minister. The dispute centers on a social stability pact that the collective says guarantees their return to their positions.
Omar Dramé, Secretary General of the workers’ administration, described the situation as dire, stating, “The workers are in an extremely difficult social situation, some no longer have the means to subsist.”
The collective is also challenging statements made by a representative from the Ministry of Energy, Petroleum and Mines, who reportedly said the workers would not be reinstated. They claim this contradicts the assurances given by the country’s top leaders.
A decree establishing a compensation fund for the dismissed employees has reportedly been enacted, with all regulatory provisions in place for their re-integration. However, the actual reinstatement process has stalled, a delay the collective deems “unacceptable.”
Authorities in Dakar recently prohibited a planned march protesting the situation, citing a conflict with other scheduled worker activities along the intended route. This decision has prompted the collective to seek international intervention and legal recourse.
The workers intend to file a complaint with the International Labour Organization and pursue legal action to enforce their rights. They are urging ministry officials to expedite the re-integration process before the end of January.
“The government’s refusal to respect its commitments is denounced, and the dignity of workers is not negotiable,” the collective stated. They have vowed to continue fighting for their rights and dignity until a resolution is reached. The case highlights the ongoing tensions between labor groups and the government regarding employment security and the fulfillment of social agreements.
