Panama Police Clash with Protesters Over Pension Reform Near Costa Rica Border
Intensified protests by teachers and Indigenous groups lead to violent confrontations with authorities amid pension reform disputes.
Police and protesters clashed in Panama on Saturday during an operation to clear a highway near the Costa Rican border, where teachers and Indigenous groups were protesting against pension reform initiatives.
The government, led by President José Raúl Mulino, launched Operation 'Omega' aimed at restoring free transit in the region, particularly in the tourist province of Bocas del Toro, which had been affected by road closures initiated by the protests.
The Panamanian Ministry of Public Security stated on social media platform X that the operation to recover blocked roads was progressing, emphasizing a commitment to the rule of law.
Authorities reported the detention of 15 individuals for disturbing public order amidst the unrest.
As part of the operation, riot police removed various obstacles including stones, trees, and vehicles blocking several routes in Bocas del Toro.
In response, some protesters threw stones, prompting police to deploy tear gas to disperse the crowds.
Reports from local media indicated that pedestrians were injured during the chaotic scenes, although specific numbers were not provided.
The demonstration predominantly involved educators and Indigenous organizations opposing the pension reform, which they believe threatens to privatize pension benefits.
Earlier in the week, protests involving workers from Chiquita Brands, a U.S.-based banana company, concluded after road blockades that had begun on April 28 due to pension changes affecting their benefits.
The company subsequently ceased operations and laid off over 6,500 workers at its Changuinola plant in Bocas del Toro, claiming financial losses exceeding $75 million due to the strikes.
Following negotiations, the National Assembly had approved a new labor regime intended to restore benefits for workers affected by the pension reforms.
The situation in Panama occurs against a backdrop of ongoing disputes over pension reform and labor rights, with protests revealing significant public discontent with government policies and their implications for key labor sectors.
The government, led by President José Raúl Mulino, launched Operation 'Omega' aimed at restoring free transit in the region, particularly in the tourist province of Bocas del Toro, which had been affected by road closures initiated by the protests.
The Panamanian Ministry of Public Security stated on social media platform X that the operation to recover blocked roads was progressing, emphasizing a commitment to the rule of law.
Authorities reported the detention of 15 individuals for disturbing public order amidst the unrest.
As part of the operation, riot police removed various obstacles including stones, trees, and vehicles blocking several routes in Bocas del Toro.
In response, some protesters threw stones, prompting police to deploy tear gas to disperse the crowds.
Reports from local media indicated that pedestrians were injured during the chaotic scenes, although specific numbers were not provided.
The demonstration predominantly involved educators and Indigenous organizations opposing the pension reform, which they believe threatens to privatize pension benefits.
Earlier in the week, protests involving workers from Chiquita Brands, a U.S.-based banana company, concluded after road blockades that had begun on April 28 due to pension changes affecting their benefits.
The company subsequently ceased operations and laid off over 6,500 workers at its Changuinola plant in Bocas del Toro, claiming financial losses exceeding $75 million due to the strikes.
Following negotiations, the National Assembly had approved a new labor regime intended to restore benefits for workers affected by the pension reforms.
The situation in Panama occurs against a backdrop of ongoing disputes over pension reform and labor rights, with protests revealing significant public discontent with government policies and their implications for key labor sectors.