May Day 2004

Labor Day was celebrated the world over with great fervor and zeal. Many used this day to reminisce the days of Socialist glory especially in the Soviet Union; when the preservation and upholding of rights of the labor class was considered an imperative. Likewise here in Pakistan, May Day was celebrated widely across the country. CMKP actively took part in the activities organized by the mass-based organizations and proved to be the only political party that participated with the mass-based organizations. The red banner of the CMKP bearing the hammer-sickle flew high and wide within the rallies and activities held on May Day. CMKP organized large rallies in five districts of Pakistan: Lahore, Karachi, Multan and Hashtnagar. In other areas CMKP comrades participated in rallies organized by other left organizations or mass organizations.

CMKP Lahore marched jointly with the traditional trade union march organized by the largest confederation of trade unions: Pakistan Workers Confederation. True to Leninist ideals of creating links with mass organizations of the working class CMKP held its rally with the working class. The rally originated from the Lahore Press Club near Shimla Pahari, and marched to Laxmi Chowk. At Laxmi Chowk workers torched a dummy of US President George Bush. Then everyone broke out into a fever of Bhangra to the beat of several dhol walas. Workers were chanting slogans with the beat of the dhols. The dance was symbolic of the liberation of emotions trapped within oppressed souls waiting for the voice of freedom to be raised against the ruling class. Then the rally proceeded to Mall Road chanting slogans in favor of a socialist revolution, against imperialism, against the army, against oppression, poverty, inflation, and unemployment. The rally culminated in front of Lahore High Court.