The General Administer Luan Saliaj lied to Deutsche Welle

An answer from Elton Derbreshi, the leader of the Trade Union of United Mineworkers of Bulqiza

Miner friends and brothers!

In a chronicle published by the well-known German channel Deutsche Welle in relation to the dismissal of three of my fellow colleagues and myself from Albchrome, the General Administer of the company – Luan Saliaj – had a word to say. He accused us of things that are neither true nor does he himself believe in them.

Because of the arduous conditions in which we work, often putting our lives at risk, we have decided to speak out and demand what is rightfully ours. We have finally managed to corner the leaders of Albchrome into taking our problems and concerns seriously. Unfortunately, what they say one day, they deny the next.

The accusations hurled against us are not even mentioned in the letters of our dismissal. But regardless of the petty accusations, Luan Saliaj and Albchrome are aware that we don't have any personal problems with other miners. We are more united than ever because we share the same problems, troubles and sufferings. If this is a war between unions (the old one vs the new one) as the company publicly declares, then why is the company openly supporting the old one?! Acting against us they have violated every national and international labour law.

As for the old unions, united or divided between them, we challenge them, whenever and wherever they see fit, to prove which is the strongest union by asking the miners to decide themselves on who is truly representing them. Let's go to the ballot boxes! Nothing is more transparent and democratic than this.

Dear miners! This is not an easy battle! But this is the historic moment that we brought about together. Only by uniting, this battle can be won. Thus, I invite you to join the United Miners of Bulqiza Trade Union!