“Foreigners out” cries in Casco Viejo

“Foreigners get out of San Felipe” and “Filthy rich get out of here” are not likely to become the new slogans of Panama’s Tourism Authority, struggling to attract visitors and investors.

But those were  the messages, reminiscent of past "Yankees go home" cries,  hurled by supporters of the government’s plans to build a 21st century style battlement around Casco Viejo. The protective wall would be  in the form of land fill and a four lane highway around Casco Viejo, one of the few  World Heritage sites still recognized in Panama.

The targets of the verbal abuse were scores of marchers  from the National Front  for the defense of Culture and Heritage. On Saturday, July 16, they were carrying torches and flags through the streets of Casco Viejo protesting phase three of the Cinta Costera (Coastal Strip).

They chanted calls for respect for the country’s heritage from President Ricardo Martinelli and no more government lies.

The insults they received came from a small group, awaiting the parade as it passed through Cathedral square.

Previous pro-government demonstrators were alleged to have been paid $6 a head to appear.

Representatives  of other civil society groups took part in the march to show support for entire families and residents of San Felipe. They, included the Panama Chapter of Transparency International, Citizens  For Justice and Civilista  organizations.

Patrizia Pinzon, leader of the Front, said the move was further evidence that Panamanians do not want the third phase, asit has been does not seek the comprehensive development ofthe neighborhoods of San Felipe, Santa Ana and El Chorrillo, but only benefits a business group.  Mauro Zúñiga, president of the Citizen’s Assembly representing 13 citizens groups.said: "We are here defending the old city, because our rulers do not.” Carlos Lee, president of the Citizen’s Alliance for Justice  said: "The third phase is just an excuse for a group of businessmen close to the government to seizes land and public funds that belong to everyone." 
The parade started at Plaza Hererra, circled the principle streets and returned to sing the national anthem.

While members of the Front stressed that protests will continue, some observers believe that the Cinta battlement is a done deal. “What Martinelli wants, Martinelli gets.” said one commentator.

That message is traveling the world. http://www.newsroompanama.com/business/3057-panama-needs-government-clean-up-economist-magazine.html