In Defence of Marxism

On Thursday 18th July comrades of the British section of the International Marxist Tendency showed their solidarity with the Peoples Youth Block (BPJ) by protesting outside the embassy of El Savador against the repressive measures employed by the government.

The right wing ARENA government in El Slavador has launched an all out attack against democratic rights. Using as an excuse the killing of two police officers in the course of a student demonstration one year ago they passed a thoroughly undemocratic "Anti-terrorism Law". This is made up of 53 articles and describes 29 different types of activities (including mural painting, street blockades) which are now classed as "terrorist acts", and can be punished with between 5 and 65 years of jail. On July 2nd 14 community leaders in Suchitito were arrested and charged with terrorism during a road blockade protest.

The authorities have now arrested Mario Belloso, whom they accuse of having killed the police officers at the demonstration one year ago. He has made "statements" linking his actions to leading members of the left-wing FMLN and other left organisations, particularly the Peoples Youth Block and also to the governments of Venezuela and Nicaragua. This is an attempt to criminalise the growing protesters of workers and youth in El Salvador on the part ofan increasingly unpopular government.

The motto of the workers movement is "an injury to one is an injury to all". We must help defend the youth and workers organisations in El Salvador against repression.

After giving a brief speech outlining the current situation, Jorge Martin went into the building to hand in a letter signed by prominent trade union activists. The letter was received, after which Jorge returned to give a summary of talks.

• Hands off the Peoples' Youth Block!
• Down with the anti-terrorist law!
• Release all political prisoners!