May Day was celebrated across Pakistan with revolutionary fervor. PTUDC held activities in more than 50 cities across the country in which workers from different sectors participated. Students and Unemployed Youth also attended these activities in big numbers. A special PTUDC poster was published at this occasion which was pasted around the industrial areas and workers’ colonies in the whole country.
Speakers addressing rallies and public meetings criticized ruling class for its inability to solve a single problem in the country and said that this Capitalist system has reached a blind alley where it will only produce more misery with each passing day. The only way forward for the working class is to overthrow this rotten system and change it to a socialist planned economy.
Karachi
Report by Hardil Kumar
Many events were held in Karachi to commemorate the International Worker’s Day. On 3 April a seminar was organized by the PIA people’s unity’s ex leadership which was presided over by Kaneez Fatima. Papers were sold and leaflets were distributed from the PTUDC book stall at the event. A seminar and poetry event for May Day and late Revolutionary Poet Habil Jalib was organized at the Arts council in which PTUDC held a book stall and distributed leaflets. In the evening a torch rally was organized by different Trade Unions and NGOs in which PTUDC comrades participated. The government increased the petroleum prices on the May Day instead of providing the workers with any relief. Fearing the reaction from the workers the Government used its puppet neo-fascists to ensure a shut-down and transportation strike in the city. The neo-fascists burnt down 80 buses during the day and 3 rallies from different workers’ organizations had to be cancelled as a result including that of People’s Labour Bureau Karachi Division.
A seminar was organized by Pakistan Trade Union Federation at 10 a.m. in the press club in which around 200 activists participated. Many workers’ leaders addressed the gathering including Tufail Abbas, Kaniz Fatima and sheikh Majeed. Comrade Paras from PTUDC also addressed the occasion. PTUDC arranged a book stall and leaflets were distributed. Railways Workers Union and Railways Mehnatkash union also held mass meeting on the cantt Railway station in which comrades from PTUDC were led by comrade Khursheed Khattak and leaflets were distributed.
In spite of the unavailability of public transport PTUDC organized a rally in which more than a hundred comrades participated. The rally started from Empress Market and went to the Karachi press Club. Around 40 workers participated from the shoe makers Association. An effigy of IMF was burnt upon reaching the press club. Here the rally was addressed by Liaqat Sahi, President of State Bank of Pakistan Labour Union CBA, and Riaz Husain Bloch, President of the PTUDC. After this, the PTUDC rally joined the rally of the workers of KESC (Karachi Electric Supply Corporation).
The biggest mass meeting of the day was organized by the workers and Trade unions of KESC in which thousands of workers participated and numerous trade union and political leaders made their speeches. General Secretary of Pakistan People’s Party Karachi division also addressed the mass meeting and expressed his support for nationalization of KESC. Comrade Paras Jan and Riaz Hussain Bloch from PTUDC also addressed the gathering in which they criticized the anti-worker policies of the PPP government. They said that this democracy is merely a means to continue the capitalist plunder. They said that those PPP leaders who really support the nationalization of KESC should pass a resolution condemning the statements made by the Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani in which he had criticized the nationalization policy of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto. Comrades reminded the workers of the fact that Gillani had been a minister in the cabinet of General Zia Ul Haq.
A rally was also organized by the workers of Port Qasim which passed through different areas of Landhi and transformed into a mass meeting at Daud square. Awami National Party ANP also held a mass meeting and announced the formation of their own Awami Labour Federation. Comrade Riaz Hussain Baloch from PTUDC addressed the gathering and commended the philosophy of resistance advocated by Bacha Khan and pressed for the need of working class unity without the prejudices of race, nation, religion and language. Leaflets were also distributed. In all these events 300 papers and many books were sold. Numerous workers signed for the signature campaign in solidarity with the Arab Revolution.
Hyderabad
Report by: Comrade Rahul
In the important industrial city of Hyderabad in Sindh a rally was organized. The neo-fascists called a transport strike on May Day in order to stop workers from participating in rallies and other events but the comrades from PTUDC walked long distances by foot to reach the press club which was the starting point of the rally. Jay Parkash, member of the provincial body of PTUDC, Eesar Das, Ex-President of WAPDA employee’s union and President PTUDC district Hyderabad, comrade Pir Muhammad Sindhi, President of Mehran Workers Federation, comrade Ghulam Rasool Memon, provincial general secretary of BNT Babar Panhwar and Hanif Misrani, Raziq Laghari, from PTCL, APCA and PTUDC leader from Talhar Khalid Chang, Ramesh and Raziq Barohi from Jamshoro Power House, APCA leader from Hyderabad Meeral Bargari, Railway Union leader Mangal Preetam, PTUDC leader from NADRA Mohan and others led the rally. The rally turned into a mass meeting which was chaired by Babar Panhwar and addressed by many leaders. The speakers paid their red salute to the martyrs on Chicago and criticized the role of IMF, and the policies of the government. The speakers said that the only way to pay tribute the martyrs of Chicago is to bring about a socialist revolution which would abolish this class system.
Mirpur Khas
Report by: Comrade Khalid Hussain
In spite of MQM’s attacks and transport strike, a rally was organized on the May Day. Numerous workers, Trade Union activists and youth from Pakistan Railways Workers Union, Pakistan Paramedical, Peasants Committee, Brick Kiln workers union, and mills union participated in the rally including comrade Parshotam, Comrade Khalid Hussain, Ramesh Kumar and comrade Javed Bloch. The rally started from the Railway Station and ended at the Press Club.
Mirpur Bathoro
Reprt by: Jabbar Zanour
A rally was held which started from Bandar Crossing in which big number of workers, peasants and students participated. It became a public meeting after reaching Bus Stop. Those who addressed the meeting included Jabbar Zanour of PTUDC Bathoro, Muhammad Khan Shoro, Sikandar Ghani, Nabi Soho and Shabbir Azad.
Gulab Laghari
Report by: Danish Mansoor
A mass meeting was organized by PTUDC and BNT in the main square of the town to pay tribute to the Martyrs of Chicago and against poverty, price hike, privatization and impoverishment of peasants. The mass meeting was attended by a large numbers of workers, peasants, students and school teachers. Karim Laghari was the stage secretary. The meeting was addressed by Faqeer Pathan, Eesoo Faqeer, Nawaz Laghari, Danish Mansoor from BNT, Raza Shahid, Rashid Laghari, Mqbool Laghari from PTUDC, Gul Muhammad Zanyoz, Atiq Laghari and Sajjad Shah from PSF Makli. The speakers said that soon the workers all over the world will move forward towards for a socialist revolution.
Tandu Ghulam Ali
Report by: Raza Shah
A rally was organized by BNT and PTUDC from Degree check post to Chambar check post. At its end the rally turned into a mass meeting which was addressed by PPP and PSF leaders Sajjad shah and Karim Laghari. Rashid Laghari, Danish Mansoor and Vinod Kumar from BNT also spoke. The speakers vowed to continue the struggle until the socialist victory.
Larkana
Report by: Najeebullah Khan
Two events were organized in the city. Watan Dost labour federation organized an event at Jinnah Park square. People’s Labour Bureau also organized an event. Comrades from PTUDC participated in both of them, led by comrade Najeebullah Khan and sold papers.
Shahdadkot
Report by: Majid Tanyo
PTUDC and Mazdoor Labour Federation held a rally which became a public meeting at Moto Crossing. 22 labour federations participated in the rally. Comrade Harish Kumar addressed the rally. Other speakers include Ghulam ullah Seelro, peasants leader Niaz Ahmad Magsi, Qadir Buksh Seelro, Ghaffar Pandrati from rice mill, Gul Muhammad Brohi, Saleh Seelro and Sarwar Seelro. Comrade Sikander Seelro was the stage secretary. Comrade Kabir Khan recited a revolutionary song.
Qazi Ahmad (Nawabshah)
Report by: Yar Muhammad Lakhoo
PTUDC and Mazdoor Ittehad Welfare Union organized a public meeting in which around 200 peasants and workers participated. Muhammad Safeel Joton presided the meeting while Sikander Khaskheli, Nawaz Langah and Meer Mattaro Khaskheli were chief guests. Comrade Ejaz Bhagio was also among the honourable guests. Those who addressed the meeting include Gul Hassan Khaskheli, Shabbir Dharejo, Maula Buksh Khaskheli, Faqeero, Sahib Khaskheli, Ali Sher Mallah, Devomil Jandero, Din Muhammad Anar and PTUDC leader Yar Muhammad Lakho. After the meeting a rally was held on the highway road.
Dadu
Report by: Comrade Zia
PTUDC, BNT and numerous trade unions and associations organized a rally from Highways Labour Hall to WAPDA Labour Hall in which 400 workers and youth participated. At the end of the rally a mass meeting took place which was chaired by comrade Saddam Khaskheli and presided over by Zameer Korijo. Nazeer Sammo from All Pakistan Trade Union Federation, President of Highways labour union Mehar subdivision Bakhshal Khokhar, Imam Bakhash panhwar from panhwar welfare organization, Sher Muhammad Bargari from Communist Party, President of Hotel workers union chacha Ghulam Qadir Antar, President Paramedical Staff Union Raja Rafiq Panhwar, President of Lower Staff Union Dadu Hajan Panhwar, Secretary of WAPDA hydro electric central labour union Warel Mirani, President of Rikshaw workers union Haji Abbas Waghiyo, Bashir Ahmed Solangi from Taluka Municipal employees union, Chairman of electric construction division Dadu Munir Ahmed Korijo, President of PTUDC Sindh Anwar Panhwar, Zonal Chairman of WAPDA electric central labour union Nazeer Panhwar and President of PTUDC Dadu Moreel Panhwar addressed the mass meeting.
Johi
Report by: Comrade Khadim Khoso
A mass meeting was organized which was attended by more than hundred workers and youth. It was chaired by Ameen Laghari. President PTUDC Sindh was the chief guest. Khadim Khoso presided the meeting. Javed Ranjhani from BNT, comrade Hameed Somro and Vice President of Teachers Union Association Tehsil Johi Aziz Somro also addressed the gathering.
Khairpur Nathan Shah
Report by: Naveed Bhatti
PTUDC and BNT organized a rally in which brick kiln workers, Hamali labourers, Rice mill workers and students participated. Rally started from Baloch petrol pump and ended at press club where Muhammad Khan Gadhi, Wazir Ali Gadhi and comrade Asif LAkheer addressed the meeting.
Khairpur Meerus
Report by: Shahbaz Phaloto
A mass meeting was organized which was addressed by comrade Shahbaz Phaloto. After the meeting a musical show took place.
Sukkur
Report by: Ahsan Jafri
Numerous rallies and mass meetings were organized by different workers’ organizations. Pak Hydro Electric Union organized from Hira medical Complex Sukkur in which Pakistan Motor Works Association Sukkur, Sindh Paramedical Staff Sukkur, Pakistan Workers Federation, Railway Labour Union, Irrigation Union, CBA union PTCL and PTUDC participated. Editor of Class Struggle Sindhi Magazine Dr. Haresh Kumar made a special address in which he explained the struggle of the worker of Chicago. He said that the only way forward is to overthrow Capitalism and replace it with Socialism. In the end leader of Pak Hydro Electric Union Zulfiqar Qureshi addressed the mass meeting.
Sadiqabad
Report by: Abbas Taj
A rally was organized by PTUDC from gate number 1 of Fauji Fertilizer Company. As the rally passed through different parts of the city, workers and leaders from different organizations and unions joined. The rally reached Shahid Bhutto square and turned into a mass meeting. Among the participants and speakers were Vice Chairman PTUDC Rana Qamar uz Zaman Khan, general secretary of employees union CBA Fauji Fertilizer Company bagging and loading Rao Tahir Ali, Secretary Information People’s Labour Bureau district Sadiqabad Abbas Tajo, Chairman Action Committee Zia Ul Haq, Shahid Azar from PTUDC, Jehanzeb Babar, Vice President of Rikshaw Union Nadeem Butt, Vice President of Al Sadaqat Employees Union CBA Jamal Din Sugar Mills Murad Sher, Vice President of Punjab Highways Union Allah Bachaya Chohan, Chacha Sajjan Masih, Abdul Samad Advocate, Mushtaq Awan from Awami Colony Action Committee, Chaudry Arshad Habib Chandya from Punjab Highways, Chaudry Arshad Naeem Ahmed Naeem from PTCL. Muhammad Hanif, Abdul Hafeez and Shaukat Ali from Rikshaw Union, Rana Nisar from Sadiqabad Youth Circle, Chuwar Bajwa from People’s Youth, President of Sadiqabad Newspaper Association Shakeel Jataala, Shaikh Waqas from Electronics Media and Shehzad Chaudry from YFIS. The speakers paid tribute to the martyrs of Chicago and said that workers of Pakistan will the follow the example set by the workers and youth in Arab world and that Socialism the only solution to the problems faced by the working class.
Rahim Yar Khan
Report: Haider Chughtai
District Workers Action Committee and PTUDC marked May Day by putting red banners and flags across the city. A rally was organized with historic participation of more than 3000 workers and youth. There were dozens of other rallies by different Trade Unions across the city. Itehad workers union of Coca-Cola factory Shahbazpur road organized a rally in which 300 workers participated led by President Sajid Hazier and General Secretary Ehsan Qadir. More than 200 workers participated in the Coca-Cola employees union’s rally which was led by President Khalid Parvez. Labour Colony Welfare Society’s president Naeem Mahandra led a rally from the labour colony in which 300 participated. Class four employees of TEVTA had their rally under the leadership of Qazi Javed. Revolutionary Workers Union Lever Brothers’ rally was led by President Muhammad Rauf and general secretary Zulfiqar with 800 workers participating. MRDW’s rally was led by chairman Sajjad Shah, President Nadim Malik and general secretary Nasir Khan in which 300 workers participated. Unilever Employee Union Ham-Khayal rally was led by Dr. Ahmad Khokhar, Abdul Qayyum Laghari and Nadim Tariq in which 200 workers participated. PSF, PYO, BNT, YFIS and PTUDC rally was led by Comrade Kajjal, Umair Bhatti, Riaz Aqeel, Masood Afzal, Shahidullah and Abid Shah in which more than 300 workers and youth participated. APCA Al-Khidmat rally was led by divisional president Rana Ehsan and Dr. Abdul Jabbar in which 200 workers participated. More than 500 workers participated in YDA, Medical Lab Technologist Association Pakistan MLTAP, Employees Welfare Association Shaikh Zaid Medical College and Hospital, PSF Shaikh Zaid Medical College and Hospital rally that was led by President MLTAP Dr. Ali Malik, President EWA Aslam Bhatti, president PSF Zohaib Bloch, Press secretary YDA Dr. Adeel Arif and Imran Arshad. 100 workers participated in the APCA Shaheen rally which was led by district president Chaudry Bona Abid and Mian Ikramullah. Revolutionary sanitary workers rally was led by Union President Sadeeq Masih and Sadiq Masih in which 300 workers participated. PPP Shahid Bhutto’s rally was led by Dr. Aslam Naro, District president Jam Azam Anis in which hundreds participated. Pakhtoonkhaw Milli Awami Party was led by Momin Zar. There were many other rallies as well by different organizations. All these rallies kept on joining the main rally which was led by Trade Union Leader Syed Zaman and PTUDC organizer Haider Chughtai. A mass meeting was also organized in which resolutions were passed showing solidarity with Arab workers and masses. Other workers’ demands were also passed in the resolutions.
Dera Ghazi Khan
Report by Gulzar Lodhi
A rally was jointly organized by PTUDC and Railways Labour Union. Sattar Lund from BNT, president of Railways Labour Union DG Khan unit Akhtar Bloch, PPP DG Khan City general secretary Iqbal Bhutta, Daud Lund from YFIS, comrade Shaikh Mehmood from PPP and Amir Qureshi addressed the rally.
Rajanpur
Report By: Comrade Atif Qureshi
A rally was jointly organized by PTUDC, YFIS, PPP, BNT, PYA, Saraekistan National Alliance, Saraekistan National Revolutionary Party, Pakistan Labour Federation and Punjab Teachers Union. At the end a mass meeting was held. The speakers included Abbas Dar, Fayyaz Zahid Gabol, Atif Qureshi, Akhtar Gopang, Advocate Ismail Khan Mazari, Alaudin Khan Mazari, Mahar Abu Bakar, comrade Abdul Karim Damrah. Shaukat Bhatti, Malik Bilal Khokhar, Prof. Ayaz Khokhar, Khwaja Ghulam Fareed and Abdul Rauf Lund.
Muhammad Pur
Report by: Comrade Asif Gashgori
A rally was organized which was followed by a poetry and musical program. The speakers, poets and musicians included Ejaz Bashir, Bashir Qasir, Irshad Nasir, Faiz Ali Faiz, Khaliq Malangi, Bashir Namanah, Ustad Shahnawaz, Ustad Riaz, Shahid Wasim, Ustad Korr, Allah Bakhash Bloch from Peasants’ Union, PPP district general secretary comrade Rauf Lund, comrade Asad Ameen Gopang and Asif Gashgri.
Layyah
LayyahA mass meeting was organized by PTUDC in which more than 800 workers participated. Speakers included comrade Ali Akbar, Member Punjab Assembly Babar Khetran and others from Teachers Union and other Trade unions.
Kot Addu
Kot AdduA workers carnival was organized on the night of 30th May in which hundreds of workers and youth participated. Comrade Ali Akbar and other comrades spoke about May Day and socialism.
Multan
Report by: Comrade Ali
May Day Poster was pasted all over the city. Pakistan Railways Mehnat Kash Union, Leather and garments workers, Brick Kiln Workers Union, WASA Employees Union, Coca Cola Workers Union and Union of Journalists had their rallies and mass meetings. In Kabir Wala a rally and mass meeting was organized by Nestle and Unilever workers. Comrades from PTUDC participated in all these events and sold paper and leaflets.
Jhang
Report by: Saqlian Shah
A rally was organized by PTUDC which 15 comrades participated and raised slogans of revolutionary socialism
Faisalabad
Report: Mian Aadil
A program was organized by District Bar Council Layallpur at Quaid-e-Azam Hall in order to celebrate International Worker’s Day in which Railways Worker’ Union, National Labor Movement, National Workers’ Party, Pakistan Trade Union Defense Campaign and many other labour organizations participated. Comrade from Agriculture University Faisalabad made a marvellous intervention with revolutionary slogans and distributed leaflets. Stalinists and some trade union leaders reacted when revolutionary slogans were being raised and tried to stop them but failed. Central President Railways Workers’ Union Aashiq Chaudhry concluded while addressing the audience that Socialism is the only way out of this crisis.
Kasur
Report by: Fayyaz Ahmad
PTUDC organized a rally jointly with many workers organizations in Kasur. Rally started from Baldia Crossing and ended at the railway station where it turned into a public meeting. Those who addressed the public meeting were Aslam Bhola from Muttahida Power Looms Union, Cormade Aslam from PTUDC, Trade Union leader Liaqat Ali and comrade Fayyaz. Speakers said that we will continue the mission of the martyrs of Chicago and will bring a socialist revolution in Pakistan.
Lahore
Report: Comrade Javed Khokhar
A public meeting attended by hundreds of workers, youth and women was organized at Sher-e-Bengal Labor Colony Lahore to celebrate May Day. The meeting was started formally by comrade Ghaffar singing of a revolutionary anthem. Many political activists addressed the audience including comrade Rashid Khalid (BNT Organizer), Dr. Tahir Shabbir, Riyasat Ali Khan (BD Pakistan), Dr. Javed Khokar, Chaudhry Ashraf (Millat Tractor Factory), Rana Naeem (Rustam Suhrab Factory), Dr. Aftab (Information Secretary YDA), Hamid Butt (President YDA Punjab), Ilyas Khan (General Secretary Peoples’ Lawyer Forum Pakistan), and Comrade Lal Khan (International Secretary PTUDC). All the speakers paid red salute to the martyrs of Chicago and said that their sacrifices would not go in vain. The working class is suffering from price hike, poverty, unemployment and hunger all over the world, especially in the countries like Pakistan. A tiny minority is getting richer and richer everyday throwing the majority of the people into poverty. This class war must be fought of class basis, uniting the workers and youth all over the world.
Dr. Lal Khan in his enthusiastic speech said that revolutionary movements are erupting in the Arab World, and the toiling masses are taking their destiny into their own hands. Sooner or later workers will overthrow the existing socio-political order and will establish Socialist Democracy.
At the end of the meeting a large rally was organized which started at Gate No. 1 of the labour colony. Youth and workers were holding red flags and banners and were chanting revolutionary slogans (Inqalab Inqalab Socialist Inqalab, Your rule mine rule Workers’ Rule etc)
G.T Road was blocked for sometime by the workers. Comrade Adam Pal addressed the participants as the rally reached Gate No. 3. He said that we will fight till last breath against this capitalist system and will overthrow it. None of the problems of the people can be solved under this system and only Socialism can solve the problems of masses. We will stand with our class until the world Socialist revolution.
Gujrawala
Report: Dr. Umer Naseer
PTUDC organized a rally from Civil Lines to Gondalawala Chowk in which more than a hundred workers and youngsters participated. Rally was lead by Dr. Umer Naseer (Leader Gujranwala Union of Journalists) and revolutionary leader Chaudhry Masood Azhar. Participants were holding red flags and placards and were chanting revolutionary slogans paying tribute to the martyrs of Chicago.
Sialkot
Report: Umer Shahid
A rally was organized by PTUDC, YFIS & BNT which started at Kachehri Chowk and ended at Allama Iqbal Chowk. It was attended by workers, youth and students. Participants chanted revolutionary slogans and comrades distributed leaflets. Comrade Asad (Student Leader Agriculture University Faisalabad), Nasir Mehmood (PTUDC Organizer) and Umer Shahid (BNT) addressed the audience and said that privatization, price hikes and load shedding (power cuts) are crushing the masses. They condemned the hiring of soldiers from Pakistan to crush the revolutionary movement in Bahrain. Speakers also said that they were determined to fight for the socialist revolution on the lines of 1917.
Rawalpindi
Mazdoor Mela (Workers’ Carnival)
On April 30th 2011, Mazdoor Mela was organized at Railways Carriage Factory Colony by Pakistan Trade Union Defense Campaign. It was attended by hundreds of workers and local residents. Event was started formally with a revolutionary anthem sung by comrade Zubair while comrade Changez fulfilled the duties of stage secretary. Comrade Hafeez sang many songs on harmonium and workers started dancing in traditional way.
Many speakers addressed the audience including Sohail Mukhtiar (Gen Secretary Peoples Unity), Aijaz Khan (PTCL), Gul Faraz Abbassi (Wapda Hydro Union), Muhammad Faisal (President CDL Workers’ Union), Ishaq Meer (PPP Leader), Ghulam Muhammad Naz (TMA Union), Comrade Asif Rashid (BNT Organizer), Comrade Sajid Kashir (Chief Organizer JKNSF), Comrade Fozia Wahab (PTUDC), Dr. Umer Farooq (YDA), Comrade Raja Imran (Additional General Secretary Railways Labour Union), Sumera Gull (Gen Secretary PPP Women Wing), Comrade Rana Ibrar (PTUDC).
The speakers condemned the policies of privatization imposed by IMF and the World Bank and said that the struggle will continue until the final victory. At the end of the event a resolution including the program and demands of PTUDC was passed unanimously by trade union leaders and workers. Comrade Afzal and Comrade Tariq thanked all those who participated and the event was concluded by singing the internationale.
On the morning of May 1st (8 A.M.) a meeting was organized by Railway Labor Union Open Line at Loco Shed. The meeting was presided over by Saleem Raza Aiwan (President of the union). Comrade Changez & Comrade Raja Imran participated and gave speeches on the behalf of PTUDC. Malik Siddique and Malik Saleem also addressed the audience. Speakers said that workers can run the institutions by themselves and Socialist Revolution is the ultimate solution to the current problems faced by humanity.
Another meeting was also organized at 10 A.M. by Pakistan Workers’ Federation at IESCO Office. The meeting was presided over by Zafarullah Niazi while Akram Bunda acted as stage secretary. It was addressed by Riaz Bhutti (PWD Workers’ Union), Hameed Khan Jadoon (Attock Oil Refinery), Comrade Changez & Comrade Raja Imran (PTUDC), Comrade Asif Rashid (BNT), Comrade Irfan Pitafi, Tahir Afsar (JKNSF), Javed Baloch (Wapda Hydro Union), Malik Fateh Khan, Nazar Shah (Murree Brewery, workers & trade union leaders from Koh-e-Nur Textiles). Comrade Changez in his speech condemned privatization, unemployment, price hike, load shedding, terrorism and concluded that only solution to these problems is Socialist Revolution. A rally was also organized after the meeting which ended at Riyalto Chowk. Comrade sold papers and distributed leaflets.
In the afternoon (May 1st) Peoples Unity organized a meeting and rally in Rawalpindi. Many labour leaders spoke including Aslam Niazi (Oil Tankers Association), Nazar Shah (Murree Brewery), Comrade Changez, Comrade Raja Imran, HidayatUllah (Peoples Unity), Sohail Mukhtiar (Gen Secretary Peoples Unity). All the speakers condemned the anti-worker privatization policies of PPP regime and chanted slogans against American Imperialism.
Islamabad
Report: Comrade Qarni
On May 1st (10 A.M.) a meeting was organized by Pakistan Workers’ Federation which was addressed by labour leaders from PWF, Printing Corporation and CDA. Comrade Farhad Kiyani, Comrade Sajjad, Comrade Masood Haneef, Comrade Hafeez Khatak and Comrade Qarni made their intervention by selling papers and distributing leaflets.
Wah Cantt
Report: Comrade Saqib
A meeting was organized by Workmen Association attended by large number of workers. Comrades from PTUDC also attended the program and spoke.
Hassan Abdal
A meeting was organized at local Town Hall which was attended by workers, trade unionists and students. Comrade from PTUDC also participated and spoke. Speakers included Raheem Shah (Wapda Hydro Union), Lala Zahir Khan (ANP), Dr. Shafiq, Zarbat Khan, Muhammad Ismail and Comrade Shahid (PTUDC). Speakers saluted the martyrs of Chicago and expressed determination to struggle for Socialist Revolution.
Fatah Jang
Report: Ahmed Farid Malak
A meeting was organized by PTUDC, YFIS and BNT which was attended by large number of workers, trade unionists and youth. Comrade Mukhtiar in his speech explained the importance of International Workers’ Day and the recent crisis of world capitalism. Comrade Khaliq and Comrade Khalid also spoke. Comrade Gulzar explained the living conditions of workers in Pakistan. Comrade Fatimi summed up by saying that Socialist Revolution was the only way forward for humanity.
Attock
Report: Comrade Pervez Malik
A meeting and rally was organized by PWD Workers Union which was attended by hundreds of workers. Comrade Pervez Malik (PTUDC), Sheikh Inayat (APCA) and Rana Faisal Ali Khan (Chairman PWD Workers Union) addressed the audience and paid tribute to the martyrs of Chicago.
Peshawar
Report: Aamir Hashmi
A marvellous rally was organized by PTUDC and attended by hundreds of workers and youth. It was led by Comrade Aamir Hashmi and stared from Loco Shed and ended at Press Club Peshawar. Participants were holding banners and placards on which revolutionary slogans were written paying tribute to the martyrs of Chicago. Comrades in their speeches said that the crisis of world capitalism is throwing more and more people into poverty and hunger. Conditions of workers in third world countries are not better than that of 1886. Workers must unite internationally in the struggle for world socialist revolution.
Malakand
Report: Comrade Imran
May Day was celebrated in a traditional enthusiastic way in Batkhela. A rally (from Press Club to Main Bazar Bukhela) was organized by PTUDC and was led by Comrade Ghufran Ahad. Hundreds of workers and youth participated and chanted slogans against price hike, unemployment and terrorism.
Bannu
Report: Bakht Niaz
A meeting was organized by PTUDC which was attended by 25 workers from different institutions. It was the only meeting to celebrate the May Day in Bannu. Comrade Bakht Niaz chaired the meeting and speakers emphasized the urgent need of a Socialist Revolution in Pakistan and South Asia.
Balochistan
Report: Comrade Nazar Mengal
May Day was celebrated in many cities of Balochistan including Pasheen, Qila SaifUllah, Soab, Lora Lai, Sibbi, Dera Murad Jamali, Dera Allah Yar, Bhag, Mastung, Noshki, Kallat, Khuzdar and Turbat. Rallies and processions were organized in these cities condemning the miseries brought upon by Capitalism.
Quetta
A rally was organized by Pakistan Workers Federation in collaboration with many other trade unions and labour federations. The leadership of the federation decided not to organize any meeting and speeches were prohibited at the rally, which shows the hypocrisy of the leadership. Workers should have been informed about the root causes behind their miseries but this opportunity was spoiled by the leadership of these federations. They didn’t even condemn the firing of 264 workers from Merk Factory on this event. Their roles in the past on this issue have been of a silent observer. That’s why they were afraid of reaction by the workers and didn’t allow speeches.
Another meeting was organized by PTUDC in collaboration with DMOs Employees Union, Railways Workers’ Union, Railway Yard Association and Station Masters Association. A rally starting from Civil Secretariat Chowk joined the meeting at Railway Station Platform. Meeting was presided over by Ghulam Nabi Barohi (President Railways Workers’ Union). Speakers included Muhammad Ali, Comrade Ali Raza, Muhammad Saleem, AtaUllah Bangalzai, Abdul Sattar Shahwani, Abdul Zahir, Arshad Bugti, Comrade Nazar Mengal and Abdul Hameed Jamali. Comrade Hassan presented the resolution containing the demands and program of PTUDC. Speakers paid tribute to the martyrs of Chicago and explained the decay of world capitalism which has made Socialist revolution inevitable. They also condemned the price hike, privatization, downsizing and load shedding which are making the lives of masses miserable. They showed solidarity with the revolution of Egypt, Tunisia and other Arab countries and condemned the intervention of imperialism in Libya.
Mastung
Report by: Asif Shah
A rally was held by WAPDA Hydro Union which started from WAPDA office in which comrades from PTUDC participated along with other workers. Rally took a round of city and came back at WAPDA office where it became a public meeting. Muhammad Yar Alizai of Hydro Union presided the meeting. Speakers included Yunus from Water Management, Iqbal Zehri from National Party, Comrade Muhiudin from Bazar Union, comrade Abdullah from PTUDC and others.
Dera Murad Jamali
A rally was organized by Mistri Union (Masons’ Union) along with other organizations. Labourers were chanting zealous slogans. Rally joined another meeting at Dera Allah Yar which was presides over by Ali Jan (President Mistri Union). Speakers included Ali Hassan Qadri, Gul Hassan Bugti, Khairullah Abdo, Syed Lal Shah, Muhamamd Raza Kharani, Manzoor Sherazi (PTUDC). Participants condemned the policies of PPP government. In reference to the victims of floods, a speaker said that state was unable to give any kind of relief to them. All the aid from foreign countries was eaten by the government officials and tents are being sold in the markets. Workers must unite on one platform and struggle for a socialist revolution on Bolshevik lines.
Sibbi
Report: Comrade Pervez
A rally organized by PTUDC and led by Comrade Nabi Bux Jadoon reached Municipal Committee after roaming through many streets and markets. Hundreds of workers from different trade unions already present there welcomed their brothers in the rally. Another rally under the leadership of Bashir Ahmed Chandio (Divisional Chairman Wapda Hydro Union) and Anwar Dhapal (Agricultural Union) joined the meeting at the Municipal Committee. The meeting was presided over by Comrade Anwar Dhapal and Ali Haider Magsi was invited as guest of honor. Saleh Muhammad Selachi was also especially invited. Tahir Victor acted as stage secretary. Ali Haider Magsi (Wapda Hydro Union), Bashir Ahmed Chandio, Comrade Dhapal (Agricultural Union), Naseem Gashkori (Railways Union), Comrade Pervez (PTUDC), Sar Shah Meer (Teachers’ Association), Muhammad Younas Hujak (Local Government), Shah Jahan (Peoples Labor), Comrade Parkash (Communist Party), Younas Solangi (Railways Workers Union), Meer Muhammad Selachi (Railways Labor Union), Qadir Bux Bangalzai (PWD Union), Abdul Ghani (Municipal Committee), Saleh Muhammad Selachi (Live Stock Union), Khalil Baloch (Irrigation Union), Mola Bux (Public Health Union) and Khizar Hayat Lashari (DMO Union) were among those who addressed the workers and youth present.
One minute silence was observed to pay tribute to martyrs of Chicago. Speakers said that illusions of bourgeoisie democracy are being shattered all over the world and working class must strive for a socialist revolution which can ensure true democracy. Only socialism can ensure the true freedom of the Baloch people and other oppressed nationalities all over the world. In order to overthrow this system based on exploitation, workers’ control over the means of production is necessary. Revolution in Middle East is proving to be a nightmare for the ruling classes all over the world and very soon masses in this region will take their destinies in their own hands as well.
Kashmir
Muzaffarabad
Report: Abrar Khuwaja
A marvelous rally was organized by JKNSF and PTUDC which started from GPO and ended at the Central Press Club. Hundred of youngsters participated in the rally with revolutionary spirit. Participants were holding placards containing slogans against IMF and imperialism. Comrade Rahid Sheikh (Central Gen Secretary JKNSF) while addressing the rally said that the sacrifice of the martyrs of Chicago is a milestone in the struggle towards rule of working class. This epoch belongs to working class and new movements are erupting throughout the world every other day. Khuwaja Jameel (JKNSF), Naqeeb Azad (PSF), Naqeeb Azad, Waqas Hamdani, Shaheen Mughal, Sardar Sarfaraz and many others delivered their speeches and concluded that Socialism is the only solution to the miseries faced by humanity all over the world. A dummy representing IMF was set on fire at the end of the rally.
Rawlakot
A rally was organized by JKNSF and PTUDC against load shedding, price hike, unemployment and exploitation. Hundred of youth and workers from Tarkan Private Limited and other institutions participated with full enthusiasm. Participants were chanting slogans against IMF and US Imperialism and in favour of the Arab Revolution and Socialism. After marching through the whole city, the rally transformed into a meeting at Al Zaheer Chowk where an IMF dummy was set on fire. Speakers paid revolutionary tribute to the martyrs of Chicago and said that world capitalism had expired as a system. The revolutions in the Middle East are clear indication that this system can’t solve any of the problems faced by the masses. PPP government is imposing more financial cuts onto the working class which are deteriorating the living standards further. Humanity have two options left in front of it: either Socialism or Barbarism. Comrade Amjad Shahsawar (Central President JKNSF), Comrade Iftikhar Sarwar (Senior Vice President), Comrade Haleem Sajid (Divisional President Postal Union), Aftab Tabassum, Basharat Ali (District Chairman JKNSF), Aijaz Qureshi (President Barber Association Rawlakot), Comrade Roshan Ismael, Comrade Umer Shafi, Irfan (District Vice President JKNSF), Comrade Zulfiqar, Comrade Khalil Baber and many other delivered speeches full of revolutionary spirit.