“We’ll drub the government” – Electricity workers begin struggle to protect Yugadanavi
A series of protests organized by the CEB Joint Trade Union Alliance against the sale of 40% shares in Kerawalapitiya Yugadanavi Power Plant, the gas import and distribution monopoly to the United States was held today (29) in front of the CEB Deputy General Manager’s Offices.
The protests were held today in front of the Ceylon Electricity Board branch offices in 19 districts and it is said that all the trade unions representing the CEB were present at the protest. The main protest was held in front of the Ceylon Electricity Board branch office in Kollupitiya, which was also attended by leaders of the CEB Joint Trade Union Alliance. The trade union leaders also collected signatures for a petition against the sale of the Yugadanavi power plant.
Addressing the media Convener of the CEB Joint Trade Union Alliance Ranjan Jayalal said, “Today, through our agitation and the signing of petitions, we express our strong protest to the government. The whole country is asking what this fraudulent agreement that was signed without even telling cabinet ministers and parties representing the government is. The transfer of energy in this country to a company called New Fortress like selling the estate of their paters and uncles is endangering national security. We will leave the power plants, offices and workplaces on November 03 and come to Colombo with the petition signed today. After the third, we will decide to go on massive strike action. We ask the administrators to remember the 72-hour strike in 1996. We do not want to go on strike when the rulers have oppressed the people of the country. The country is now ruled by a set of brothers. Therefore, we say we are sure the back of the government will be knocked to the ground.”
