Moderators Moderator_03 Posted October 26, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted October 26, 2023 Quote Doctors and dentists strike against mining contract Posted 25/10/2023 The Association of Doctors, Dentists and Related Professionals of the Social Security Fund (Amoacss) began a work stoppage for 72 extendable hours, starting Tuesday in rejection of the approval and sanction of Law 406, which establishes a new contract between the Canadian company Minera Panamá and the State. The General Hospital and Trauma Center of the “Dr. Arnulfo Arias Madrid” of the CSS, saw considerable losses of outpatients since last week as the roads were obstructed by protests. Every day we miss around 350 appointments with specialists, which represents between 35% and 40% “In the Hospital Complex, 800 to 850 specialty consultations are granted, people who are treated, so the outpatient consultation has had a reduction of 35 to 40 consultation slots than what is offered daily," stressed Alberto Mattatall. , deputy medical director of the hospital they invite patients not to go to health facilities and only use them in cases of “emergencies.” Amoacss has called on the rest of the medical unions to maintain “unity” in their position against mining activity. And to join “peaceful” demonstrations in different health institutions. The union demands that the Judicial Branch accept and promptly resolve the unconstitutionality claims filed against the contract. https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/doctors-and-dentists-strike-against-mining-contract Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted October 28, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted October 28, 2023 Quote Young people swell the ranks of mining protestors Posted 27/10/2023 Friday saw the culmination of a week of protests across Panama by people from civil society and union members marching in rejection of the mining contract, endorsed by President Cortizo on October 20. Their numbers were swelled by thousands of young people and their teachers. In recent days, the protests have intensified and ended in clashes with crowd control agents who have an automatic tear gas launcher to quickly disperse the protesters. "We are more and we are not afraid", those of us who love Panama", were part of the slogans shouted by the young people who marched for the fifth consecutive day from Cinta Costera to Calle 50. Due to the acts of vandalism that tried to tarnish the legitimacy of the march in recent days, the organizers of 'Sal de las Redes' have asked people not to go hooded. They also changed the hours of the demonstrations, now they will be from 2:00 pm so that the protest does not end at night. They add that the demonstrations will continue until Law 406 of the mining contract is repealed. There are thousands of people who, despite the incidents of Thursday night, have come to continue their fight, while people from buildings people support them by banging pots. The protesters shouted "down with mining", highlighting that this Law was approved without listening to the people, and asking that a public consultation be held so that Panamanians decide whether or not they want mining activity. On Friday, one of the destinations was the Supreme Court and in the hands of the magistrates there are several demands of unconstitutionality against the Law, and there are already several sectors that have added their voices so that a quick process is given to the same and a decision is made on the issue. in La Chorrera, teachers and civil society also marched through the main streets of the district towards Libertador Park. and school bus drivers made a caravan accompanying the teachers from Plaza Italia to the park, all under the same slogan, “no to mining in Panama” https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/young-people-swell-the-ranks-of-mining-protestors Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted October 28, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted October 28, 2023 Quote Mining Contract crisis - DAY FIVE Posted 27/10/2023 For the fifth consecutive day, Panama faced chaos in the streets on Thursday, October 27 as thousands assembled to protest the mining contract signed between the State and Minera Panamá, a scenario that keeps the country and its economic activity practically paralyzed. The events were seen by some observers as the biggest public outcry since the American invasion and reached the Cortizo farm and the Presidency National Police, reported that about 25 officers have been injured in the midst of these events. The security establishment detailed that 8 were injured with firearms, 9 with blunt objects, and 8 due to physical assault. None of the injuries are life-threatening. In the midst of the protests, more than 30 businesses have been vandalized, along with six state offices such as those of the Ministry of Economy and Finance, located in Vía España. Likewise, 18 vehicles were affected, of which 13 were vandalized and 5 were set on fire. Health sector On Thursday the first day of work stoppage was announced by the National Negotiating Medical Commission (Comenenal) and the Association of Medical Specialists of the Santo Tomás Hospital. The medical bodies gave the Government 48 hours to repeal the mining contract; Otherwise, they will extend the force measure, which implies suspending outpatient care and elective surgeries. “We continue to provide care in emergency services, intensive care, and to hospitalized patients,” said Domingo Moreno, coordinator of Comenenal. The Social Security Fund (CSS) reported that the street closures keep the Chepo Hospital in a "difficult situation that compromises the care and lives of our patients." The CSS announced that it only has food only for two days, because "the protesters have not allowed the passage of food to that hospital." It also reported that this situation is repeated in other regions of the country such as Panama Oeste, Colón, Chiriquí, Bocas del Toro, and central provinces. Given this scenario, the CSS requested a humanitarian health corridor to be able to care for patients. Classes are still suspended in the public sector, after teachers' unions extended the work stoppage until today, Friday. Meanwhile, private educational centers maintain the flexibility measures adopted by their managers and parents. Cortizo Estate One of the demonstrations that drew the most attention was that of a group of residents who walked from the communities of Río Indio, in Donoso, province of Colón, to the district of Chagres to reach the farm of President Cortizo. As they passed, the coastal residents shouted slogans against the mining contract and the current management of Cortizo, who has a farm in the town of Punta del Medio, Piña district. National Aeronaval Service prevented the demonstrators from entering. https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/mining-contract-crisis-day-five Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted October 29, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted October 29, 2023 Quote Protestors blocking Pacora Bridge open “humanitarian corridor" Posted 28/10/2023 Protesters who have blocked the Pacora River bridge (eastern Panama) throughout the week announced Friday night that they would allow a humanitarian corridor starting Saturday, October 28. Peasants and indigenous people who lead the protest against the mining contract reported that the corridor will be open daily, from 6 to 9 in the morning. The Nune Ngabe Buglé Movement of Panama reported that only one lane will be enabled for the passage of food, liquefied gas, water, fuel, migrants, medical supplies, and health personnel. In addition, ambulances, civil protection personnel, firefighters, critical patients, pregnant women at risk, and injured people will have free passage at any time. The leaders reiterated that they will remain at this point until Law 406 on the mining contract between the State and Minera Panamá for the exploitation of copper in Donoso, Colón is repealed. https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/protestors-blocking-pacora-bridge-open-humanitarian-corridorquot-1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted October 30, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted October 30, 2023 Quote 562 face vandalism charges during protests Posted 29/10/2023 The Novey Company on Calle 50 in the capital was among businesses vandalized across the country following demonstrations on the night of Saturday, October 28, in rejection of the new contract between the State and Minera Panamá Police officers arrived after receiving a citizen report. In the interior of the country, specifically in the city of Santiago de Veraguas, it was reported that the Cochez store was also subject to vandalism. The Primary Care Section of the Veraguas Regional Prosecutor's Office reported that it is investigating the crimes of theft and property damage recorded early Sunday in the business dedicated to the sale of construction materials. Disturbances were also reported in Punta Paitilla, Balboa Avenue, and Bella Vista. The National Police reported the arrest, in the last few hours, of four people who were traveling in a vehicle in which they found fireworks, gasoline, masks, and nine tires that were presumed to be used in the demonstrations in the Bella Vista sector. Until, Saturday, 562 people had been brought before the authorities for acts of vandalism, property damage, and other crimes committed in the provinces of Panama, Panama Oeste, Veraguas, and Chiriquí, during the six days of protests. https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/562-face-vandalism-charges-during-protests Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted October 30, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted October 30, 2023 Quote Bikers ride to reject mining law as protests swell Posted 29/10/2023 Scores of motorcyclists, many sporting the shirt of the Panama national soccer Team paraded on Avenida Balboa with the Panama flag on Sunday, October 29 to express their rejection of Law 406 – which adopted a new contract between the Panamanian State and Minera Panamá, and was sanctioned October 20 by the President Laurentino Cortizo . They traveled from the Miramar Hotel to the Maracaná stadium, returning to the Cinta Costera. For Sunday afternoon, a new rally has been called from the Panama sign, on the coastal strip, to Calle 50 “If you sell your country, you sell your mother,” “For my children and yours, not for mining,” banners that people carry to the demonstrations. https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/bikers-ride-to-reject-mining-law-as-protests-swell Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted October 31, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted October 31, 2023 Quote Teachers call indefinite strike - construction workers return to street Posted 30/10/2023 The unions that are in the streets protesting and closing roads announced Sunday night that they will continue with their actions until Law 406 on the contract between the Panamanian State and Minera Panamá is repealed. The reaction came after President Cortizo, announced Sunday, October 29, that he will request a popular consultation on Sunday, December 17, so that the population can decide whether or not to repeal Law 406 of 2023. “We remain on the street. Law 406 must be repealed, it is a mandate that is the mandate of the people,” said the general secretary of the Single Union of Construction and Similar Workers (Suntracs), Saúl Méndez. The Panama Teachers Association announced on on its social networks immediately after Cortizo's announcement that "the fight continues" and called a general assembly at the El Carmen church at eight on Monday morning which approved an indefinite strike. https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/teachers-call-indefinite-strike-construction-workers-return-to-street Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted October 31, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted October 31, 2023 Quote Mining protests continue – provincial bus services frozen Posted 30/10/2023 Despite the announcement by President Laurentino Cortizo of a referendum to define the future of Law 406 (which establishes the contract between the State and the Canadian First Quantum Minerals to explore and exploit the Cobre Panamá mine) and elevate as law the moratorium on new mining concessions, the road in front of the University of Panama (UP) has been blocked since the early hours of Monday and there are closures elsewhere in different parts of the country with streets and avenues blocked again. There are 20 routes that will maintain the suspension of collective service in the province of Chiriquí. The provinces of Veraguas, Herrera, and Chiriquí declared a work stoppage as a measure of pressure against the mining contract. The transporters of Veraguas paralyzed the service for another 24 hours while those of Herrera decreed the total closure of the accesses and services of the transport terminal of the city of Chitré. The transport unions of Chiriquí stated that they are maintaining the suspension of the service until they have guarantees. The unions ask the authorities to find a prompt solution to the problem of road closures and the shortage of fuel in the country. https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/mining-protests-continue-provincial-bus-services-frozen Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted November 1, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted November 1, 2023 Quote Supreme Court admits four more unconstitutionality claims against mining law Posted 31/10/2023 Four new claims of unconstitutionality against Law 406 of October 20, 2023, have been admitted by the Supreme Court, it was reported on Tuesday, October 31 raising to six the number that have been received by the Court's magistrates. Law 406 establishes the new contract between the State and Minera Panamá. In the last ten days, this law has motivated different citizen groups to go out to protest – at the national level – to show their discontent over the controversial contract for mineral exploitation in Donoso, for 40 years, awarded to the mining company First Quantum Minerals. On Monday, October 30, two of the trial judges admitted the unconstitutionality claims presented by lawyers Ernesto Cedeño Alvarado and Roberto Ruiz Díaz. These were sent to the Attorney General of the Administration, Rigoberto González, and to the Attorney General of the Nation, Javier Caraballo, respectively, so that they can issue a concept within a period of no more than ten business days. On Tuesday, October 31, two other substantiating magistrates admitted two more claims of unconstitutionality presented at the time by a group of 13 lawyers, and by the forensic firm Estudio Jurídico Cedeño, of which were also transferred for a period of time. of 10 business days to also issue a concept to González and Caraballo. The Judicial Branch recalled that, in accordance with the provisions of article 2564 of the Judicial Code for this type of process, once the file with the attorney's opinion is returned, an edict will be published for three days in a newspaper of national circulation, so that within 10 business days (counted from the last publication) the plaintiff and all persons interested in the case present their arguments in writing through a lawyer. Once the previous term has expired, the substantiating magistrate will examine all the documents that have been presented and will proceed to prepare a draft decision that will be submitted to the consideration of the magistrates that make up the Court, who may present observations and considerations that will be analyzed in a session of the full Court. Meanwhile, citizen demonstrations have continued in the country, despite the announcements of a call for popular consultation on the permanence of the mine and the presentation of a bill that prohibits granting new concessions for the exploitation of metal mining. https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/supreme-court-admits-four-more-unconstitutionality-claims-against-mining-law Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted November 1, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted November 1, 2023 Quote Mining protests swell as they enter 9th day Posted 31/10/2023 Tuesday, October 31, marks the ninth day of nationwide closures and protests rejecting the opencast mining contract . Far from the protesters' impetus diminishing, with each passing day more people, trade union organizations and business associations join the popular clamor demanding the repeal of the mining contract and the prohibition of open pit mining exploitation in the national territory reports TVN. In an attempt to calm things down, President Laurentino Cortizo announced on the night of Sunday, October 29, on national television, a plan to call a public consultation on December 17 to decide whether or not to repeal Law 406, which establishes the relationship contractual between the State and Minera Panamá However, the Electoral Court refused, warning that conditions do not exist to do so given the turbulent environment in the country and because the Supreme Court must resolve unconstitutionality claims filed against the law on the mining contract. Despite the rejection of the electoral body, the Minister of Government, Roger Tejada, presented before the plenary session of the Assembly on the afternoon of Monday, October 30, a bill to carry out the public consultation for the dated proposal by Cortizo (December 17.) In addition to Tejada, the Minister of Commerce and Industries, Federico Alfaro Boyd, also presented another bill that prohibits the granting of new concessions for the exploration, extraction, transportation and benefit of metal mining throughout the national territory. In addition to the popular consultation, Cortizo had offered last Friday the prohibition by decree of new metal mining concessions, but maintained the contract with the Canadian company, which further inflamed the protests. The protesters demand a moratorium on mining activity by law, not by decree. Given this, the government also presented a bill to the National Assembly on Monday to prohibit metal mining. Popular unrest broke out on October 20 when deputies approved after 40 minutes" the law that allows First Quantum to operate the open pit mine for 40 years. Cortizo promulgated it on the night of that same day. https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/mining-protests-swell-as-they-enter-9th-day-1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted November 1, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted November 1, 2023 Quote Mining protests cause shutdown of Patriotic Parades Posted 31/10/2023 The Ministry of Education (Meduca) reported "that after conversations and approaches with parents and directors of official and private schools the decision to temporarily postpone the official patriotic parades on November 3, 4 and 5. The Meduca statement says that the decision was in response to multiple requests from the educational community who, given the events of recent days, expressed their concern about the safety and security conditions of the students. In relation to the current social situation, where teachers remain unemployed in rejection of the mining contract, the Ministry of Education states that it has "the commitment to always advocate for a permanent dialogue, which influences hundreds of students to participate with enthusiasm in the celebration of national holidays and, as regent of education in the country, it will always respect the rights of the educational community since it will ensure the safety of all its members." Since last week, public school teachers have continued to demonstrate and strike, in protest of the approval of Law 406 that contains the contract between the Panamanian State and Minera Panamá. https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/mining-protests-cause-shutdown-of-patriotic-parades Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted November 2, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted November 2, 2023 Quote Four people injured in anti-mining protests will likely lose their sight Posted 01/11/202 Panama’s Ombudsman, Eduardo Leblanc González, reported that about four people who have been injured in their eyes while participating in demonstrations rejecting the mining contract s will probably lose their sight, including two minors. Regarding the case of the man who was injured by a police officer in San Miguelito, when he was defenseless, Leblanc told TVN that they have tried to contact him but it has not been possible. The Ombudsman met with Alberto Brunori, Regional Representative of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, in order to carry out an evaluation of the social protests in the country. During the meeting at the Ombudsman's Office, the directors of the entity presented a report on the accompaniment carried out by human rights officers, injuries, arrests, as well as possible violations of human rights. https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/four-people-injured-in-anti-mining-protests-will-likely-lose-their-sight Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted November 2, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted November 2, 2023 Quote Business Chamber backs court route to end mining tangle Posted 01/11/2023 The decision on the Mining Contract is in the hands of the Supreme Court, a judicial instance that has received six lawsuits against Law 406. Panama’s Chamber of Commerce, Industries, and Agriculture (Cciap) says that the opinions issued by the Attorney General and the Attorney General of the Administration on the constitutionality or unconstitutionality of Law 406 that approves the Mining Concession Contract, are timely. Therefore, the call by the CCIAP to the Supreme Court (CSJ) is reaffirmed to rule in law for the national well-being in accordance with the situation the country is going through. "After analyzing the different paths that have been proposed in the midst of the crisis, we reiterate that the judicial path is the most appropriate institutional path and that it will have the least impact on the country in terms of social, economic, and political aspects,” said Adolfo Fábrega, president of the union. Fábrega called on the National Assembly and the Executive Branch to allow the Judicial Branch to act legally and in a timely manner The business community believes that both the Executive and the Legislature should focus the debate on enacting a moratorium on the granting of mining concessions for both exploration and exploitation of those that are not operational, are in process, and new concessions; as well as the review and strengthening of the Mineral Resources Code. https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/business-chamber-backs-court-route-to-end-mining-tangle Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted November 2, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted November 2, 2023 Quote Demonstrators tear-gassed in clashes with police Posted 01/11/2023 Demonstrations on Via Espana on Wednesday, October 31 in rejection of the mining contract ended with clashes between the young people who participated in the demonstrations and crowd control agents of the National Police. Hundreds of young people had taken over the four lanes, near the Iglesia del Carmen, around 8:00 p.m. on the tenth day of protests, when the agents arrived firing tear gas. People started running. Some responded with stones but the amount of gases released forced the crowd to move towards Calle 50, along the street of the El Executivo hotel. Others, stayed near the area to respond to the police. Earlier, hundreds of people marched towards the National Assembly to express their rejection of the contract. There was also a brief confrontation there, after a group of protesters tried, once again, to tear down the metal fences guarding the Assembly. https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/demonstrators-tear-gassed-in-clashes-with-police Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted November 3, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted November 3, 2023 Quote Citizens group offers mediation role in midst of crisis Posted 02/11/2023 After holding a meeting on Thursday, 2 the Commission for Civic and Moral Values reported that they would be offering themselves as mediators between all parties in the midst of the crisis in the country. It follows days of street closures and demonstrations in opposition to Law 406 of October 20, which approves the mining concession contract signed between the State and the company Minera Panamá, SA. “It is important for the population to understand, specifically the protesters, that we agree with the demonstrations because they are fighting for a specific issue, however, we as workers with vulnerable communities require that a truce be made,” said Marianela de Castillero, member of the Commission. She stated that efforts should be made to facilitate free access so that humanitarian corridors exist that allow the free transit of medicines, food and fuel because this will facilitate the free coexistence of citizens. She added that in this mediation they would be the facilitators between the protesters and if possible the State, in addition to all the groups that maintain some disagreement. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted November 3, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted November 3, 2023 Quote Mining protests cost Panama tourism $200 million Posted 02/11/2023 The 12 days of protests and street closures in rejection of Law 406 has cost the tourism industry $200 million, said the Panamanian Hotel Association (Apatel) on Thursday, November 2. The statement highlighted that the losses recorded include $13 million in the hotel sector and cancellations due to visits by tourists to the country that exceed 68,000 people until next January, which includes holding of congresses and conventions, arrival of tourists, etc. “This paralysis of the country worries the Panamanian tourism sector, mainly due to the announcement of a growing number of hotels that are being forced to suspend their operations, with direct effects on suppliers and collaborators,” said the Apatel Board of Directors. Reservations for national holidays have been canceled by nearly 90% in the province of Chiriquí, 60% in Bocas del Toro, 90% in Santa Catalina, almost 100% in the Antón Valley, and similar percentages in the other interior tourist destinations. In the capital city, the occupancy rate has fallen by 25% in some hotels, with cancellations lasting until January 2024, that is, well into what should be Panama's high season. Apatel says that the viability of tourism in any country depends on social peace and Panama is no exception. The devastating figures accumulated to date demonstrate the absolute need to recover national calm in accordance with the will of the citizen majorities and the law. Vandalism & repression “The Panamanian Hotel Association supports the right of legitimate protesters who, with respect for the rights of others peacefully demand a better Panama. We repudiate the unjustified repression against them and the infiltration of criminals who commit acts of destruction and vandalism,” says the statement. They indicated that the urgency of the moment that Panama is experiencing makes it imperative that the National Government, including the Assembly, listen to and comply with the popular will promptly, protecting the interests of the Nation. In synergy with other unions in the country, the Supreme Court is called upon to issue an opinion on the claims of unconstitutionality that weigh on Law 406 and without delays that could prolong the current state of national confrontation. “We call on the legislative authorities to refrain from taking actions that could hinder the delicate task in the hands of the magistrates,” Apatel concluded. https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/mining-protests-cost-panama-tourism-200-million Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted November 5, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted November 5, 2023 Quote Teachers and anti-mining groups to continue protests Posted 04/11/2023 Members of the Association of Teachers of Panama (Asoprof) and the group Panama Without Mining, meeting on Saturday, November 4, agreed to continue with protest actions to achieve the repeal of Law 406, which ratified the contract signed between the State and Minera Panama. They warned that protest actions will continue since there are no guarantees that the Supreme Court will declare the law unconstitutional (in whole or in part). During the meeting, the leaders pointed out that it is necessary for the Government of Laurentino Cortizo to definitively repeal Law 406. Fernando Ábrego, leader of Asoprof, insisted that despite the opinions expressed by the Attorney General of the Nation, Javier Caraballo, and the Attorney General of the Administration, Rigoberto González, there is no certainty that Law 406 will be declared unconstitutional. For this reason, Ábrego asked teachers at the national level to continue in the strongholds of struggle and maintain pressure on the current government. on Sunday, the leadership of the Alianza Pueblo Unidos por la Vida is scheduled to hold a general assembly to define the actions to follow in the coming days, after the National Assembly issued the moratorium law on metal mining in the country. Other civil society organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture, and the Panamanian Association of Business Executives have requested the authorization of humanitarian corridors for trucks with food, medicine, and fuel. https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/teachers-and-anti-mining-groups-to-continue-protests Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted November 7, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted November 7, 2023 Quote Irreversible consequences of citizen protests Posted 06/11/2023 Sectors such as transportation, tourism, agriculture, industry, supply chain, and services have generated millions in losses that are still incalculable today, but that could have irreversible consequences if a point of consensus is not reached to restore free transit and allow the country's already battered economic activity recovery says Panama’s Chamber of Commerce, Industries, and Agriculture (CIAP). For Adolfo Fábrega, president of the Chamber the situation of "kidnapping" that many Panamanians experience is extremely worrying since the right to free movement, health, and work in decent conditions has been violated repeatedly. Fábrega recognizes that the peaceful demonstrations promoted by young people will have a transcendental impact on the political history of the country by getting the Government to sanction a mining moratorium law that prohibits the granting of concessions for the exploration, extraction, transportation, and benefit of the exploitation of metal mining throughout the national territory. But this effort that began with a legitimate demand from citizens has been distorted by closures that already have other objectives because human rights violations are occurring. He said that there have already been closures of companies that had existed for years and that have not been able to resist the closures and this will inevitably have a direct impact on all Panamanians, which at this time is already reflected in the high cost of the few vegetables and legumes left in the markets. "The cost of living for all Panamanians will have an increase that will take years to stabilize if we ever manage to return to the levels we were aiming for." According to Fábrega's analysis, what began as a criticism of citizens against some State bodies "has transformed into a fight where we are hurting each other." he added that no objective can be above the kidnapping and violation of human rights that have been inflicted on thousands of Panamanians. "We already have reports of people who tried to get to hospitals with emergencies and failed, patients who needed medical supplies and did not get them, of distributors who no longer have fuel to continue delivering basic and essential foodstuffs.” Finally, the lawyer asked to respect the rule of law and give time for due process so that the Supreme Court could issue a ruling on the unconstitutionality or not of Law 406 that establishes the contract between the State and Minera Panamá and that unleashed the social crisis in which the country finds itself. While this is happening, it is imperative and urgent that free transit be restored. https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/irreversible-consequences-of-citizen-protests Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted November 7, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted November 7, 2023 Quote Journalists attacked – cops stand by Posted 06/11/2023 The National Council of Journalism (CNP), the Forum of Journalists and the Panamanian Broadcasting Association (APR) issued a joint statement to show their resounding rejection of the aggression registered against a group of journalists who, in the middle of coverage on the 2nd November, at the height of the bridge over the David River at the entrance to the city, they were attacked by a group of protesters. In a strong message, the journalistic unions point out that the harangues of protesters against journalists during the exercise of their informative function are worrying. Journalists are primarily communicators and are not responsible for determining the actions that are prioritized or not by the authorities. During the last two weeks, such intimidation has sometimes ended in physical attacks, not only in Chiriquí but in central provinces and in the capital city. On occasions, these attacks have occurred without the competent authorities doing anything about it. We remind the security establishments that the State has a special obligation to protect journalists so as not to generate self-censorship and to guarantee the proper recording of the facts. As other unions and national organizations have done, the media conglomerate warns that the country is experiencing a heated situation given the violation of other rights such as free movement, which is having severe effects, impeding the right to work and self-sufficiency. as well as affecting third parties due to lack of food, fuel, and medicine. This situation is not an excuse to allow any type of excesses, either on the part of protesters or the National Police against journalists. The CNP, the Journalists Forum, the APR and the Chiriquí Journalists Association make a strong call to the security agencies to become aware of their obligations to maintain peace and public order, respecting and protecting those who, for their function, they are called to cover the difficult situation that exists in the country. https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/journalists-attacked-cops-stand-by Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted November 8, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted November 8, 2023 Quote American kills two mining protestors in Chame Kenneth Garrinton Posted 07/11/2023 Two people died Tuesday afternoon when American lawyer and professor Kenneth Darlington, 77, shot them at one of the ongoing protests against the Minera mining contract. The victims were identified as Abdiel Díaz and Iván Mendoza, one was an educator and the other was the husband of an educator at a school in the San Carlos district. Darlington was carrying an automatic weapon and shot after 2:40 p.m. at the two educators, who were with others at a blockade on the Pan-American Highway in the Chame sector. The two injured people died, one at the scene and another at the San Carlos hospital. The attacker, apparently having dual nationality, American and Panamanian, was captured by police agents and is in custody. At the scene were teachers who had interrupted traffic at this point on the Panamericana for two weeks to demand the repeal of the law contract that extended for 20 years, extendable, the concession for the company Minera Panamá, a subsidiary of the Canadian company First Quantum Minerals, exploit the largest open pit copper mine in Central America. The Public Ministry said that an American killed two mining protestors in Chame Two people died Tuesday afternoon when American lawyer and professor Kenneth Darlington, 77, shot them at one of the ongoing protests against the Minera mining contract. The victims were identified as Abdiel Díaz and Iván Mendoza, one was an educator and the other was the husband of an educator at a school in the San Carlos district. Darlington was carrying an automatic weapon and shot after 2:40 p.m. at the two educators, who were with others at a blockade on the Pan-American Highway in the Chame sector. The two injured people died, one at the scene and another at the San Carlos hospital. The attacker, apparently having dual nationality, American and Panamanian, was captured by police agents and is in custody. At the scene were teachers who had interrupted traffic at this point on the Panamericana for two weeks to demand the repeal of the law contract that extended for 20 years, extendable, the concession for the company Minera Panamá, a subsidiary of the Canadian company First Quantum Minerals, exploit the largest open pit copper mine in Central America. The Public Ministry indicated that Chame's office in Panama Oeste began investigations for a crime against life and personal integrity to the detriment of two people who were at a road closure. A history In 2005, Darlington was arrested after a raid on an apartment in Paitilla by the National Police. Darlington admitted at the time that he owned two weapons of war, but he had them as a collector. The lawyer was investigated for alleged possession of weapons of war and ammunition but was released after posting bail. Darlington was the spokesperson for the financier Marc Harris, who was convicted of money laundering, according on July 23, 2005. A history In 2005, Darlington was arrested after a raid on an apartment in Paitilla by the National Police. Darlington admitted at the time that he owned two weapons of war, but he had them as a collector. The lawyer was investigated for alleged possession of weapons of war and ammunition but was released after posting bail. Darlington was spokesperson for the financier Marc Harris, who was convicted of money laundering, on July 23, 2005. https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/american-kills-two-mining-protestors-in-chame-1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted November 9, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted November 9, 2023 Quote “Gringo assassin” in preventive detention Posted 08/11/2023 Kenneth Darlington, the 77-year-old who shot and killed two protesters in Chame, on Tuesday and was recorded in videos and photos by journalists from international agencies, was taken at 4:00 pm on Wednesday, November 8, before a judge of guarantees in Panama Oeste, for the crime against life and personal integrity to the detriment of both people. The guarantee judge legalized his arrest and ordered him held in preventive detention The guarantee hearing takes place in La Espiga, La Chorrera district. Paula Garcés, prosecutor of the Panama Oeste Homicide and Femicide Section of the Public Ministry, stated that investigations into this incident are already underway. A group of teachers chanting “gringo assassin” demonstrated on the premises where the hearing was held The events occurred in the afternoon of Tuesday, November 7. In the images captured through videos broadcast through social networks, Darlington is shown walking towards a group of protesters against the mining contract on the Inter-American Highway, near the entrance to Punta Chame, carrying a firearm in his right hand and demanding that the road be reopened. After having a discussion with the protesters, Darlington fired towards one of the victims and later carried out multiple detonations towards another of the victims. Despite the intervention of medical personnel one of the victims died at the scene. The other victim, a 62-year-old man, was rushed to the Juan Vega Méndez Polyclinic in San Carlos, where he arrived without vital signs. One of the victims was a teacher at an academic institution located in San Carlos, Panama Oeste, while the other man was the husband of an educator. https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/gringo-assassin-in-preventive-detention Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted November 10, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted November 10, 2023 Quote Anti-mining protests enter third week Posted 09/11/2023 Over two weeks of protests and closures by citizen groups opposed to the mining contract between the State and Minera Panamá continued across the country on Thursday, November 9. There were clashes between protesters and riot police who used tear gas in front of the "Contraloria" on Balboa Avenue. The Transistmica highway, in front of the University of Panama and the South Corridor, was blocked along with the Centenario road (near Merca Panamá). Other protests were on Domingo Díaz Avenue, at the entrance to San Antonio, and in Villa Zaíta and La Cabima (northern Panama). The Inter-American highway in Chame was partially closed and closures continue in the east of Chiriquí. From 3:00 am there were closures in Quebrada Ancha, Transístmica. There are also blockades in 4 Altos and at the entrance and exit of the Panama-Colón highway. https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/anti-mining-protests-enter-third-week Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted November 10, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted November 10, 2023 Quote No more road closures and crackdown on vandalism Posted 10/11/2023 The National Police will not allow more road closures and will take tougher measures against acts of vandalism. "Street closures will not be allowed, the Pan-American highway will be opened to Chiriquí and all rights will be respected (...) We will work vigorously to restore order," said the commissioner of the National Police, Elmer Caballero, in a Thursday press conference. The headquarters of the Comptroller's Office, bus shelters on Balboa Avenue, and Mi-Buses were among the targets of vandals. Commissioner Caballero stressed that the public force is acting in a professional manner, being aware of the rules. '' The primary good of all is life,'' he said. It was confirmed that several people have already been identified who have participated in acts of vandalism that have been transmitted through social networks around the country. The events occurred in the morning hours of Thursday, November 9, when a group of people vandalized the headquarters of the Comptroller General during road closures by construction workers, who demanded the cancellation of Law 406, which ratified the contract between the Panamanian State and Minera Panamá. On repeated occasions, protesters have indicated that these measures will remain in place until the Court issues a ruling on whether this contract is unconstitutional or constitutional. https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/no-more-road-closures-and-crackdown-on-vandalism Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted November 11, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted November 11, 2023 Quote The Inter-American highway remains closed in Santiago Posted 10/11/2023 Crowd Control Units of the National Police managed to clear the road at the La Peña intersection in the province of Veraguas. However, despite the presence of a significant contingent of riot police, the Inter-American highway remained closed in both directions over the vehicle bridge in Santiago, a place that has become the bastion of the struggle of teacher leaders, unions, and groups originating from the Veraguense region that for more than three weeks have blocked the country's main vehicular artery as a measure of pressure to reject the Minera Panama mining contract. From the early hours of Friday, November 10, anti-riot agents from the National Police arrived in the city of Santiago to restore vehicular traffic on the Inter-American highway. The first closure point that the police managed to clear was the intersection located in La Peña, where three people were apprehended and placed under the orders of the authorities. However, the main points such as El Piramidal and the vehicular bridge over the Santiago crossing still remain blocked. It is expected that in the afternoon as the public force advances, they will be able to take control of these two sectors that have remained closed since l October 23 when the protests in rejection of the mining contract began. In an attempt to restore social peace and public order, the National Police announced that no more street closures would be permitted and that it would vigorously enforce the law to restore order in the country. For this purpose, two checkpoints were established in the city of Santiago, one on the overpass over the Inter-American highway and the other in front of the Piramidal Hotel. https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/the-inter-american-highway-remains-closed-in-santiago Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderators Moderator_03 Posted November 12, 2023 Author Moderators Share Posted November 12, 2023 Quote Indigenous protestors will open blocked roads for 12 hours Monday Posted 11/11/2023 Indiguenous groups from the Chiricano East confirmed Saturday that on Monday, November 13, they will open all blocked roads for 12 hours from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. These groups have kept the main roads of the province of Chiriquí closed for 19 days as a form of protest against the National Government and the Deputies of the National Assembly by approving and sanctioning the mining contract through Law 406. https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/indigenous-protestors-will-open-blocked-roads-for-12-hours-monday Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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