Panama : Panama declares state of emergency after protests by banana workers

In Panama, the government has taken action following protests by A regional state of emergency has been declared for banana workers. In the tourist province of Bocas del Toro, basic rights such as Freedom of assembly and movement restricted, announced the Minister of Presidency, Juan Carlos Orillac.

Road blockades and protests have been affecting the city for around two months, the economic and social life of the province. Bocas del Toro is located in northwestern Panama on the border with Costa Rica. On Thursday Protesters had attacked facilities belonging to the banana company Chiquita and of the airport in the city of Changuinola was looted. A baseball stadium was Chiquita had announced the dismissal of its approximately 6,500 employees and relocated its administration to Costa Rica.

"These incidents are unacceptable and do not constitute legitimate protest," said Orillac. He described the actions of the protesters as criminal acts. This would result in public Order, internal security and democratic institutions are at risk. Previously, in May, the government had only approved a smaller part of the province declared a state of emergency without restricting fundamental rights.

Together with teachers, indigenous people and construction workers The banana workers are not only protesting against a pension reform, but also against a security agreement between Panama and the USA, which increased US military presence at the Panama Canal .