Ihusaan pledges cooperation with workers at Labour Day march
Following recent government restructuring, labour-related responsibilities were moved under the ministry.
Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan said on Friday that the government is committed to listening to workers’ concerns and working with employees to improve conditions in the Maldives.
Ihusaan made the remarks during a march organised by the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology to mark International Workers' Day.
The event began at Artificial Beach and ended at Social Centre.
Following recent government restructuring, labour-related responsibilities were moved under the ministry.
Addressing participants, Ihusaan said Workers’ Day in the Maldives had often been marked by confrontation with the government, and said the aim of the state-led march was to change that approach.
“For a long time, May 1 has been observed in the Maldives as a day reflecting a spirit of workers standing against the government. However, we are now fostering a culture of listening to workers and working alongside them,” he said.
The minister said several matters relating to workers’ rights had not been adequately addressed in the past.
He said weak enforcement of laws had resulted in workers missing protections guaranteed under existing legislation.
Ihusaan said the government intended to work with trade unions and employers to create a safe and fair working environment.
He also said the administration wanted to see a future in which people could work with dignity in any profession.
“Until that day comes, we will walk side-by-side with you. We will not rest until satisfactory solutions are achieved for your rights,” he said.
The event marked the first known government-led march for Workers’ Day in the Maldives.
At the same time, labour groups also held their annual rally in Malé.
The first May Day gathering in the Maldives was held in 2006 during the administration of former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom and was organised by the Maldivian Democratic Party.
The largest May Day protest recorded in the country took place in 2015 and was led by opposition parties against the administration of former President Abdulla Yameen.
