Omar Tagguet, Secretary-General of the General Union of Algerian Workers (UGTA), cautioned against the exploitation of the union's national, provincial, and local structures for political parties, alliances, or independent formations ahead of the upcoming legislative elections. Speaking at a conference held at the Construction Workers' Mutual Aid in Zeralda, Mr. Tagguet stated, "It is time to make decisions… and whoever wants to remove me prematurely must strive for it." This statement showed his resolve regarding the internal leadership of the union. He further warned that "strict disciplinary measures will be taken against violators," emphasizing the seriousness of the prohibition. Mr. Tagguet clarified that while individual activists are free to belong to different political currents and run for elections, "it is forbidden to support parties or exploit the organization for the benefit of political currents or free lists, in accordance with Articles 10, 11, 12, and 13 of Law 23/02 concerning the exercise of trade union work." This legal framework provides the basis for the union's stance on political neutrality.
Strict Stance on Political Interference
Omar Tagguet made these statements on Tuesday during the second renewal conference of the National Federation of Water Sector Workers, held at the Construction Workers' Mutual Aid in Zeralda. He affirmed that exploiting UGTA structures for political purposes is strictly forbidden. Mr. Tagguet reiterated that strict disciplinary measures will be taken against individuals who violate this rule. The prohibition on exploiting union structures for political ends is based on explicit articles of Law 23/02, which concerns the conditions for practicing union work. Specifically, Articles 10, 11, 12, and 13 of this law underpin the UGTA's commitment to maintaining its independence from political affiliations and ensuring its organizational integrity. This adherence to legal provisions notes the union's dedication to its mandate as a non-partisan workers' representative.
Defending Institutions and Member Rights
The General Union of Algerian Workers (UGTA) does not prohibit its members from participating in legislative elections, allowing them to run with political parties, alliances, or as independent candidates. This policy ensures that individual union members retain their democratic rights. The union has urged all Algerians, including both unionized and non-unionized citizens, to cast their votes robustly for their chosen parliamentary representatives. UGTA leadership emphasized that a core mission of the union involves defending the institutions of the Republic. The UGTA currently represents approximately 2 million members across various sectors, making it a significant voice in Algerian society. The organization's stance aims to distinguish between individual political freedoms of its members and the collective, non-partisan nature of the union's structures. This approach shows the UGTA's commitment to its institutional role while respecting the democratic rights of its vast membership, ensuring that the union itself remains focused on its primary objectives of workers' representation and national institutional stability.
Internal Reform and Leadership Challenges
Omar Tagguet also criticized the internal situation of the General Union of Algerian Workers (UGTA), describing it as fraught with contradictions and the presence of "parasites." The UGTA Secretary-General affirmed that no official, including himself, would remain at the head of the organization indefinitely, signaling a potential for leadership transitions. Mr. Tagguet conveyed a sense of weariness regarding the internal dynamics and expressed a willingness to depart from his leadership role if others desired his removal. He articulated this sentiment by stating that if anyone wants to remove him from the UGTA prematurely, they must "struggle" for it within the framework of the law, indicating a call for legitimate processes rather than internal discord.
A Call for Directness
Omar Tagguet pledged directness, stating he is "tired of playing the role of 'nice guy'" and will speak plainly and directly with everyone from now on. He added that anyone seeking his premature removal from the UGTA must "struggle" for it within legal frameworks, reinforcing his earlier remarks about legitimate challenges. Mr. Tagguet announced a stricter approach to managing the organization's affairs moving forward, suggesting a period of significant internal reform and a firmer hand in leadership. This move aims to address the internal contradictions and challenges he identified within the union's structures and operations.