The process to elect Unite’s new General Executive Council has begun. This is the most important election since the formation of Unite. Branch secretaries are being sent nomination papers. The nomination period is from 5th January to 4th February 26.
The deadline for the close of the ballot is noon 27th April. Militant Left along with other socialists and activists is supporting the Workers Unite panel. It is the best way to maintain the momentum begun with the election of Sharon Graham as General Secretary. Unite must continue to build upon the success of past years, as a fighting industrial members led union.
Workers’ Unite/Back to the Workplace platform
Unite Broad Left, in which Militant Left unite members are active, is included in the Workers Unite/Back to the Workplace slate of candidates.
It is essential that strong Broad Lefts are built in each region and sector of the union. We must counter those who would push the union backwards. A clear majority on the incoming executive in support of the Back to the Workplace panel is essential after the disruptive tactics witnessed on the outgoing executive.
This election is also a precursor for the General Secretary election later in the year when Sharon Graham will be standing again.
Unite has been the main opposition to the Starmer government’s anti working-class agenda. The Policy conference last July overwhelmingly endorsed a review of Unite’s links to Labour. This should not mean taking a non-party, syndicalist position, which some may advocate. The incoming Executive needs to deal with this but also needs to address the building of a real political socialist alternative.
