The secretary general of the General Federation of Banks, Financial Institutions and Insurance Companies, Ahmed Jaziri, denounced this Monday “unacceptable pressure” exerted on employees to break the general strike in the banking and insurance sector, observed on November 3 and 4 across the country.
Speaking on Jawhara FM, Ahmed Jaziri confirmed that the strike “covers all banking services” and that its success rate exceeds 80%, according to initial estimates. He recalled that the slogan aims to make salary demands considered legitimate heard, by asking for the resumption of negotiations on increases for 2025.
The trade unionist stressed that the resumption of dialogue with the Banking and Financial Council (CBF) could allow a rapid resolution to the conflict. “Opening the way to negotiations remains the only solution to break this impasse,” he said.
Jaziri also criticized a climate of harassment in certain institutions, accusing certain leaders of exerting direct pressure on agents in order to reduce the scope of the movement.
Context of social tensions
The federation criticizes the CBF for its refusal to address the issue of salary increases for 2025. Last Friday, Ahmed Jaziri had already criticized the speech deemed “out of context” by the Banking Council, believing that the employers’ side was operating “on the fringes of social dialogue”. He then called for an urgent resumption of discussions to avoid any escalation.
For its part, the Central Bank of Tunisia (BCT) sent a note to banking establishments, asking them to guarantee the continuity of vital operations, in particular payments, cash withdrawals and money transfers. She also insisted on constant coordination with the BCT for any urgent intervention during the movement.
The CBF warns
The Banking and Financial Council (CBF) reacted strongly to the call for a strike launched by the General Federation of Banks and Financial Establishments. In a press release published Thursday, the CBF considered that this movement has “no social or economic justification” and that it risks harming the interests of citizens and businesses.
According to the Council, this strike would take place “at a time when the general interest requires more work, effort and solidarity”. He warned of the disruptions that such a shutdown could cause in essential banking services, affecting individuals, businesses and financial institutions.
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