The Palestinian National Initiative issued a statement calling for immediate national reconciliation today.
‘Our national economy is at one of its most difficult stages as we continue the struggle for liberation and independence. At this very moment the occupation government is using a tactic of siege against our people and our elected officials in order to break the steadfastness in our struggle to regain our homeland.'
Dr. Moustafa Barghouti is at the helm of the PNI, which issued its envisioned plan to solve the issue of salaries for public sector employees.
‘The National Initiative declares its full solidarity with the workers who remain steadfast in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. It declares full support for their unions and their struggle to obtain their living. The PNI supports the movements as securing decent lives is the most important and fundamental step in strengthening the steadfastness of our people. The workers raised their voices with thousands demonstrating in Gaza to ensure that the Palestinian Authority provides for their basic needs while living under closure and worsening unemployment.’
Regarding preparations for a teachers strike, the National Initiative said that this is a public sector that struck during the time of the late President Arafat without being treated as they are now, which is to be marginalized and harassed.
However, none of their efforts have afforded them their demands for better wages or the right to form a proper trade union.
Finally, the Palestinian National Initiative called for the urgent need to speed up the application and administration of the National Accord Document.
‘We believe it is an essential crane to lift the siege from our people, and to deal positively with the requirements to support the steadfastness of the people, at the top being the workers and the teachers.’