Lawyers in Gabon embark on indefinite strike

Lawyers in Gabon began an indefinite strike after ending an earlier 15-day strike to demand better conditions and unpaid allowances.

The decision was taken after a vote on Monday during the general meeting of the National Union of Magistrates (SYNAMG).

“We presented shared the outcome of the negotiations with our leadership. The union agreed that they were insufficient,” Vice-president of SYNAMG, Justin Loundou said.

Among the demands that sparked the earlier November 28 strike are the condition of administrative court buildings in Franceville and Port-Gentil, payment of a backlog of their performance incentive (PIP), halt of arbitrary assignments as well as court gowns for young lawyers.

The lawyers say the Justice Ministry has not satisfied their demands except on “court gowns”. They however promise to provide a minimum service.