OTTO CARRINGTON
Senior Reporter
National Trade Union Centre (NATUC) General Secretary, Michael Annisette, has condemned the arrest of activist Alyssa Phillip during Friday’s Labour Day march in Fyzabad, describing the police action as “regrettable,” “unfortunate,” and an affront to democratic freedoms.
Speaking yesterday, Annisette said Phillip had been participating in the march at his invitation and was walking directly behind him while he led the labour movement’s demonstration when police intervened.
“She was invited by the General Secretary of NATUC, which is me, to participate in the march. She was with us, right behind me, leading the demonstration when she was arrested,” Annisette said.
He maintained that Phillip had committed no offence that warranted the action taken against her.
“She committed no armed crime, and it is unfortunate and regrettable that we are reaching this stage,” he said.
Yesterday, the Police Service, in a statement, said a social activist and a small group of followers, who were not members of the Trade Union movement, attempted to join the procession, and after checks by officers, it was determined they were not part of the trade unions’ authorised procession.
Annisette feared the arrest appeared to be aimed at intimidating the activist and those who support her.
“It seems it was a measure of intimidation against the young lady and her followers,” he said.
Annisette said he was personally disturbed by the manner in which the arrest was carried out, claiming officers moved aggressively to isolate Phillip from the peaceful demonstration.
“I was taken aback. I’m not normally shaken, but I was shaken by the action and the conduct of the police in this matter,” he said.
Describing the incident as unnecessary and excessive, Annisette argued that such actions have no place in a democratic society.
“That kind of behaviour has no place in our modern democratic society,” he said. “It was uncalled for and unnecessary.”
He called on the Government to intervene, warning that the issue extends beyond the arrest of one individual and touches on citizens’ constitutional rights.
“I call on the Government to intervene in this matter in the interests of our democracy and the right to protest and dissent,” he said.
Annisette said the labour movement would be issuing a formal statement on the matter and announced that NATUC and allied labour organisations are expected to hold a media conference today to address the arrest of Phillip and her mother and the implications for civil liberties.
Annisette’s comments came amid mounting criticism from trade unions, activists and civil society groups following the arrest of Phillip and her mother, Camille Caresquero, during Labour Day activities in Fyzabad.
Movement for Social Justice leader David Abdulah described the arrest as a violation of people’s rights.
Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles also condemned the arrest and said it was unfortunate, especially during an occasion such as Labour Day.
