Market traders and locals join picket line

Teacher strikes over unpaid salaries resume in Sulaymaniyah

2024-01-28 | 16:33

SULAYMANIYAH, January 28 — School teachers have resumed protests in Sulaymaniyah and its districts, with a large number of them blocking one side of a major street leading to the city’s education directorate

The protests have garnered support beyond teaching staff, with local residents and business owners joining in, chanting and displaying banners.

In Halabja, market traders have shown solidarity with the striking teachers, citing a complete halt in business due to the overall economic situation. Most shops in the Halabja market are closed, with traders linking the shutdown to the delayed payment of salaries to teachers and civil servants, which has directly affected market activity.

Teachers involved in the protests are asserting that they will not resume work until their salaries are paid.

Meanwhile, in Ranya, despite some teachers returning to classrooms in certain schools, the demonstrations are gaining momentum. A new wave of protests, led by teachers, began on Sunday in front of the education directorate. These demonstrations have attracted support from various community members, including business owners, government employees, medical staff, and students.

In Qaladiza, a notable number of teachers and government employees have congregated in front of the city park, closing both sides of the town’s market area.

The protesters have vowed to continue their boycott until their salary demands are met.