Hambantota workers calls off fast-unto-death protest

 Friday, January 19, 2018

The workers attached to Hambantota Port called off their fast-unto-death protest following a discussion with Ports and Shipping Minister Mahinda Samarasinghe, earlier today.

The Minister had said that of the 438 employees, 138 will be given employment at the Ports Authority and the rest of employees would be given a compensation of Rs. 1 million.

Magampura Port Workers’ Union President I K Omesh said they called off the protest and hunger strike in agreement to the pledge made by the Minister.

The meeting held between the Minister and union representatives was convened by Ven Omalpe Sobitha Thera.

The protest of the Hambantota workers continuing for 60 days and the fast-unto death campaign continued for 11 days.

Several workers who engaged in the hunger strike were hospitalized due to deteriorated health conditions.