Badush Cement Factory workers in Nineveh protest over employment rights

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Workers at the Badush Cement Factory expansion plant in Nineveh province held a protest on Monday demanding the restoration of their employment rights, the correction of their job grades and the recognition of their prior years of service. The employees emphasized that the facility is entirely state-owned and is not affiliated with any private investor. They said their job grades have been frozen for years, their academic qualifications have not been taken into account, and actual service periods dating back to 2004 have not been counted. Workers also said that, because salaries set by the Ministry of Industry remain low, they have been forced to take on additional work outside their official hours. They called on Prime Minister Ali Zaydani and the newly appointed Minister of Industry to intervene urgently and hold those responsible to account. The employees said they would continue their protest until their demands are met. No further details were immediately available.