With deep concern and absolute firmness, the National Journalism Council, the Forum of Journalists for Freedom of Expression and Information, the Panamanian Broadcasting Association and the Chiriquí Journalists Association have issued a joint statement to strongly reject the attack suffered by three Panamanian journalists last Saturday in the province of Bocas del Toro.  The journalists were threatened with spears and stripped of their equipment while covering “Operation Omega.”  These acts, according to the unions, not only constitute a violation of press freedom but also represent a serious attack on the right of every society to be informed. 

Journalism organizations find it alarming that the aggressors are the same people who have historically denounced the lack of media coverage of their demands. They emphasize the evident and painful contradiction: “You can’t demand objective information and coverage while silencing those whose job it is to inform,” the union notes.  In the context of the profound social crisis facing Panama, the unions emphasize that journalism is a fundamental pillar in preserving and strengthening democracy by providing information, facilitating public debate, defending human rights, and fostering a critical and participatory society. Without free, independent, and ethical journalism, democracy is weakened. 

In light of this situation, the organizations demand that violence be abandoned as a form of protest and that peaceful methods prevail, in order to build the just society that all Panamanians desire. They also ask security agencies to contribute to maintaining peace and public order, respecting and protecting those who, by virtue of their role, are called upon to cover difficult situations like those we are experiencing in the country.  Referring to the Declaration of Chapultepec, the unions emphasize that the government must take effective measures to safeguard the work of communicators.  Finally, the journalistic organizations reiterate their commitment: “As unions, we will remain vigilant in upholding the fundamental rights of our colleagues who are on the streets doing their jobs: quality, ethical journalism and purposeful communication. Without a free press, there is no democracy.  And without mutual respect, there is no justice.”

Strike in Bocas del Toro: Fuel Lines in Changuinola and Trucks Stranded in Chiriquí

The operation could take “more than three or four days” to clear the roads in Bocas del Toro. The situation in Bocas del Toro has created difficult times in this part of the country and also in the province of Bocas del Toro. This Monday, in Changuinola, long lines of drivers lined up to refuel. The impact is due to the restriction on mobility due to the instability experienced in the province of Bocas del Toro due to the closures.  Meanwhile, in San Lorenzo, Chiriquí, National Police crowd control officers reopened the Inter-American Highway. Meanwhile, clashes were reported in the Horconcitos area.

Francisco Smith Will Face a Hearing; the National Police Reinforce Security at the Changuinola SPA

Smith, general secretary of the Sitraibana union, was arrested in the capital and faces charges of alleged incitement to crime and crimes against public safety.

After the arrest of Francisco Smith, a representative of the Banana, Agricultural, and Related Business Workers Union (Sitraibana), was confirmed for allegedly condoning crime, banana workers once again closed roads inside Changuinola, Bocas del Toro province.  Authorities explained that Smith’s arrest is in response to a complaint filed against him for allegedly committing various crimes against the administration of justice in the form of apology for crime.  It was learned that the hearing for the banana growers’ leader will take place this Tuesday, June 17.  Smith’s capture prompted the remaining union members to take to the streets again within Changuinola, violating the agreement signed with the National Assembly deputies.  Last week, banana growers traveled to the City to meet with the board of directors and the leaders of the caucuses with the goal of reaching an agreement on the modifications to Law No. 45. 

During the meeting, banana growers pledged to lift the blockades throughout the province. However, educators and indigenous groups rejected the document and announced they would continue to take to the streets to oppose Law No. 462. In response, the Executive branch decided to take action through its security forces to guarantee the free movement of nationals and foreigners.  Security Minister Frank Ábrego said the opening of roads in the province could take at least four days due to resistance from some protesters.  Since the start of “Operation Omega,” 28 people have been arrested; of this number, 24 have been placed under the custody of the Public Prosecutor’s Office, and the rest before the Justices of the Peace.  The Ministry of Public Security has allocated approximately 1,300 units from various branches to this operation, which seeks to restore order in the province.

President Mulino Approves Special Law for Banana Workers

President José Raúl Mulino announced that he signed the special law for banana industry workers this Monday, June 16.  I just passed the banana law. It’s time to publish it.  While Operation Omega is underway in Bocas del Toro to “reopen roads,” President Mulino announces the approval of the text agreed upon with the Banana Industry Workers Union (Sitraibana).