The workers of the Vahed Bus Company have produced a leaflet which calls on the workers of the company to go back on strike until Mansour Ossalou has been released and their union recognised.

Here we translate extracts from the leaflet:

"Greetings to all you drivers and workers who toil and seek justice,

"As you … know the trade union of the Vahed Bus Company has defended your rights with all its being and … withstood the solitary cells of Evin [prison], the sack, exile and being summoned to many security centres, [but] has not in the slightest way backed down in defending the legal rights of the workers and with your unity, determination and unison continues to defend your rights wholeheartedly.

"Unfortunately, even with all these toils and difficulties, not only have there been no decent steps taken towards granting the rightful and legal demands of workers, but the leader of the Steering Committee of the Union, Mr Mansour Ossalou, has been apprehended and imprisoned for no specified and known reason since 22 December 2005.

"We therefore call on all co-workers, especially the defiant and justice-seeking drivers, that the two morning and evening shifts, and the workers in the repair shops and … trolley buses and …offices stop work in unity, with broad solidarity and defiance, first thing on the morning of Saturday 28 January 2006, and to stay on strike in all areas and the trolley buses … until the release of Mr Ossalou and the recognition of the union … and … be ready to co-ordinate with the next decisions of the Steering Committee.

"We will stay on strike until all our demands are met."

Trade Union of the Vahed Bus Company of Tehran and Suburbs
24 January 2006

Translated by Iranian Workers' Solidarity Network