The Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) labor center expresses its support for the ongoing protests of the workers and people of Hong Kong. The protests, which were initiated by students and are supported by workers and other sectors of society, express the Chinese people’s demand for a voice in their country. The workers and people of Hong Kong are condemning and opposing the restrictive processes leading to the elections in 2017. The rigid rules on nominations further erode the possibility of holding democratic elections by limiting the candidates to those favored by the Chinese government. In 2008, the Chinese government announced that it will consider holding elections in Hong Kong. This August, it said it will only allow elections under its rigid terms. In response, the students of Hong Kong initiated a week-long boycott protests starting last September 22 and held activities outside the government complex, hoping to pressure the Chinese government to rethink its position and allow changes to the previously announced process concerning the elections. The outpouring of support for the protests from the workers and people of Hong Kong also underscores the deteriorating economic conditions in the country – increasing joblessness, soaring inflation and property prices, and lack of decent housing. We condemn the violence used against the protesters. Dispersal teams used pepper spray and tear gas against the protesters and arrests are being made. At the same time, we salute the protesters for displaying courage and determination amidst state repression. They have called for a bigger demonstration on October 1. We support the workers and people of China who are rising up against the imperialist, neoliberal, and repressive government and ruling class of China. Reference: Elmer Labog Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU, May First Movement Labor Center)
Posted on: Mon, 29 Sep 2014 05:41:09 +0000
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