Statement of the Trade Union of the Vahed Bus Company of Tehran and Suburbs on the strike on 28 January 2006 Share Tweet On behalf of the 17,000 workers of the Vahed Bus Company of Tehran we inform the workers' organisations of the world and all those who have been moved by the suppression of the most basic human rights, that on 28 January, our widespread strike was confronted by the unprecedented attack of the agents of the Islamic Republic. On behalf of the 17,000 workers of the Vahed Bus Company of Tehran we inform the workers' organisations of the world and all those who have been moved by the suppression of the most basic human rights, that today, 28 January, our widespread strike was confronted by the unprecedented attack of the agents of the Islamic Republic. On the previous night they attacked our homes, even took our young children to prison, and a large number that is certainly over hundreds, were arrested (we still do not have the precise number). A number of our co-workers were forced to drive buses after being beaten and threatened. A number of drivers who had been hired by the military organisations, as well as thousands of police and security agents, both plain clothes [officers] and uniformed, were unleashed on us so that they can smash our strike. This is our [current] situation.What was the strike about? For the release of Mr Ossanlou and the other leaders of the union, who were also without any reason and through bullying thrown into jail; signing a collective contract; union recognition; for a pay rise and the like. Can you believe that for these demands such a merciless and massive war was started? The Islamic Republic has done this and we have no choice other than to continue our struggle in a more determined and united way.We ask you, our co-workers and co-destined throughout the world, who can have your own unions and organisations, we request that you condemn this act of the Iranian government. We expect that you demand the immediate and unconditional release all those who have been arrested. Demand that our union is recognised and our demands met. We expect that you will condemn the smashing of our strike and that you will demand that all those who attacked the striking workers are tried and sentenced. We also thank all the unions and organisation that have supported our struggles. We have a long and hard struggle ahead of us and urge you to continue your support.Respectfully Trade Union of the Vahed Bus Company of Tehran and Suburbs 28 January 2006 Translated by Iranian Workers' Solidarity Network 29 January 2006 See also: A number of student, labour and other activists arrested at the Area 6 Terminus in Tehran (January 30, 2006)Hands off the Vahed Bus Company trade unionists! (January 2, 2006) Iran: We condemn the arrest of the Steering Committee of the Vahed Bus Company of Tehran and Suburbs (December 31, 2005) Iran: Around 3000 Vahed Bus Company workers end their strike after most of their leaders are released (December 31, 2005)
