Panama Declares State of Emergency Amid Banana Region Protests

Protests in Panama have intensified, leading authorities to declare a state of emergency in response to violent clashes and vandalism linked to pension reform discontent.

Panama has declared a state of emergency in its primary banana-producing region, Bocas del Toro, following violent protests that involved looting and property damage. As part of this emergency decree, which will last for five days, the government is suspending certain constitutional rights, thereby restricting movement and allowing police to make arrests without warrants. The unrest, instigated by local banana workers and the banana workers union, has been ongoing for over a month as they oppose proposed cuts to pension benefits.

"The state will fulfill its constitutional duty to ensure order and safeguard peace," stated Juan Carlos Orillac, the Minister of the Presidency, highlighting the government's intention to restore stability and address what they deem radical disruptions. This turmoil can be traced back to nationwide protests ignited in March against pension reform, with residents in Bocas del Toro demonstrating significantly against Chiquita Brands after the company laid off thousands of striking workers.

Protesters have been actively setting up roadblocks across the province, and confrontations with law enforcement have become increasingly frequent. Reports indicate that earlier this week, protesters damaged a facility managed by Chiquita Brands as well as a local airport during the heightened unrest. The situation remains fluid as the government seeks to implement emergency measures to quell the growing violence and restore order in the region.