Panama is experiencing significant unrest in its key banana-producing region, Bocas del Toro, leading the government to declare an emergency and suspend constitutional rights for five days to restore order amidst ongoing protests against pension cuts.
Panama Faces Unrest as Emergency Declared in Banana-Producing Region
Panama Faces Unrest as Emergency Declared in Banana-Producing Region
Government suspends constitutional rights amid escalating protests over pension reforms.
Panama has declared a state of emergency in its crucial banana-producing area of Bocas del Toro following severe protests that have resulted in looting and vandalism. The turmoil intensified as demonstrators opposed a pension reform proposed by the government. As part of this emergency decree, constitutional rights will be put on hold for the next five days, limiting movement and empowering police to perform warrantless arrests.
The unrest, which began about a month ago, was significantly influenced by the local banana workers union, who joined a nationwide movement against the pension cuts and initiated a strike. "In light of the breakdown of order and ongoing acts of violence, the state must fulfill its constitutional duty to maintain peace," declared Juan Carlos Orillac, the country's presidency minister. He further asserted that the measure aims to “rescue the province” from extremist elements.
Protests throughout Panama were sparked in March over proposed pension reforms, with Bocas del Toro witnessing increased unrest predominantly led by Chiquita Brands banana plantation workers. The situation escalated last month after the company terminated thousands of striking employees, sparking further anger. Protesters have erected roadblocks and clashed with law enforcement, resulting in damage to Chiquita facilities and even local airport infrastructure earlier this week.
