Mining workers protest unpaid wages in Ankara

Mining workers from Eti Gümüş in Elazığ and Doruk Madencilik in Eskişehir have launched protests in Ankara over unpaid wages from Yıldızlar SSS Holding. The demonstrators, represented by the Bağımsız Maden-İş Union, are demanding that their outstanding earnings be paid and have called for the nationalization of the holding company.

During the third day of demonstrations, workers attempted to march toward the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources but were blocked by police near the Milli Kütüphane metro station. Protesters reported harsh conditions while camping in parks, including being sprayed with water by authorities. The Bağımsız Maden-İş Union has criticized the Ministry for refusing to grant the workers an appointment and has condemned the Ankara Governor's office for imposing protest bans.

Union leaders stated that workers have faced detentions during the protests and emphasized that they will not leave the capital until their rights are secured. The workers have directed their criticism toward both the employer and government officials, including Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar, for failing to intervene in the wage dispute.