It is with great sadness that the ITF reports the death of Benito Bahena y Lome, general secretary of the Alianza de Tranviarios de México, member of the ITF Executive Board and Vice Chair of the Road Transport Regional Committee. The ITF sends its deepest sympathies and condolences to his family, and to his many comrades and friends around the world.
A tireless campaigner for labour and human rights, and a lifelong activist in the trade union movement, Benito played a pivotal role in the major events and negotiations that achieved significant advancements for transport workers in his country and region. Benito was instrumental in securing Mexico City as the location for the ITF’s 42nd Congress in 2010, hosted by his union and the first to be held in Latin America: a turning point in the ITF’s history. The last day brought international leaders and delegates together with Mexican working men and women in a powerful demonstration of solidarity with the global fight for peace and justice, to which Benito dedicated his life.
As one of the longest serving senior leaders of the Latin American and Caribbean regions, Benito was a committed and constant advocate, involved in every major ITF initiative, campaign and action. He had a well-deserved reputation for being an articulate speaker and a skilled diplomat, and will always be remembered for the warmth, intelligence and compassion with which he approached his work.
In addition to his leadership of the ATM and positions within the ITF, Benito’s advocacy for workers’ rights extended to numerous civic and professional roles. Benito’s passing is a huge loss that will be felt not only at the ITF but widely across the international labour movement.
Letters of condolence should be sent to itf_americas@itf.org.uk.
We mourn the loss of our comrade, friend and leader, now at peace. Gracias, Benito!
