Panama has declared a state of emergency in its main banana-producing area following serious unrest. This decision comes after protests erupted over proposed pension reforms, leading to looting and vandalism in the region.
The government has announced that constitutional rights will be suspended for five days in Bocas del Toro, located in the north-western part of the country. This emergency measure restricts movement and allows police to make arrests without warrants.
The unrest began about a month ago when the local banana workers union joined a nationwide protest against potential pension cuts. Workers at a Chiquita Brands banana plantation have been at the forefront of the demonstrations, which intensified after the company laid off thousands of striking employees.
Protesters have set up roadblocks in the province, resulting in clashes with law enforcement. Earlier this week, crowds caused damage to one of Chiquita’s facilities and even targeted a local airport.
Juan Carlos Orillac, Panama’s minister of the presidency, stated that the government is taking these actions to restore order and ensure peace in the region. He emphasized the need to "rescue the province" from the violence caused by radicals.
This wave of protests is part of a broader discontent that started in March over pension reforms affecting workers across the nation. The situation in Bocas del Toro highlights the growing tensions between labor rights and government policies in Panama.