Mining workers protest in Ankara over unpaid wages

Workers from Doruk Madencilik and Eti Gümüş, affiliated with Yıldızlar SSS Holding, are continuing a prolonged protest in Ankara to demand unpaid wages, severance pay, and social security premiums. The demonstration, organized by the Bağımsız Maden-İş union, has reached its 29th day outside the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources.

Protesters report that despite previous promises of payment, many workers have yet to receive their full entitlements. Some workers have highlighted personal hardships, including health issues resulting from workplace accidents and financial instability. The union has called for the government to intervene, with some members suggesting the state should take over the company to ensure workers are paid.

Political figures, including CHP leader Özgür Özel and TİP leader Erkan Baş, have visited the protest site to express solidarity. During the demonstrations, a delegation of workers met with Deputy Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Abdullah Tarcan, marking the first official contact in the ongoing dispute. The union has threatened to march to the Presidency if a concrete solution is not reached.