The general federation of basic education has strongly condemned the resignation of the secretary general of the tunisian general labour union, as well as that of the assistant secretary general in charge of studies, considering the timing to be “highly sensitive” amid preparations for a general strike.
“An abandonment of the union struggle”
In a statement, the federation described these resignations as a “clear retreat from the ongoing battle” and an abdication of leadership responsibilities at a critical moment, as the union movement gears up for a nationwide mobilization to defend workers’ rights.
In the same statement, dated January 3, 2026, the federation reaffirmed its firm commitment to the choice of collective struggle, to the decisions of legitimate union structures, and to its rejection of any policy aimed at fragmenting union unity.
The federation also urged the UGTT executive bureau to assume its historic responsibilities by swiftly issuing the general strike notice, in order to ensure the success of what it described as a “central battle” to defend the economic and social rights of workers.
An official resignation awaiting review
It should be recalled that the secretary general of the trade union organization officially submitted his resignation request on December 23, 2025. The request is still pending review by the executive bureau, which, according to the UGTT’s internal regulations, has a maximum period of 15 days to hear the concerned party and examine the reasons behind the resignation.
This clarification was confirmed in a previous statement to Tunisie Numérique by Béchir Sahbani, secretary general of the UGTT Bizerte.
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