Civilistas demonstrate over Noriegas return

Protesters dressed in white and carrying white flags gathered on Panama's Calle 50 on Friday to insist that Panama’s former dictator Manuel Antonio Noriega remains in jail after his return on Sunday.

Most were former Civilistas (members of the of the Civil Crusade) a group that opposed the Noriega regime (1983-1989) and they are concerned that the 77 year old will be granted house arrest because of his  age. White flags and handkerchiefs were the symbol of protest  prior to the US invasion in 1989. Many demonstrators in the past were savagely beaten and jailed.

The ex strong man, who is being extradited from France, has yet to be tried for multiple murders and also faces long prison terms for sentences passed in absentia.

Although they were on  the sidewalk, traffic in the area was slowed down as demonstrators wearing headbands saying “I am a Civilista” attempted to put white flags on passing cars. forehead.

Noriega will arrive at Tocumen Airport on Sunday at 5:30 pm on an Iberian Airlines flight from France. He will be transferred by air to El Renacer Prison, according to Panamanian authorities.

That likely means that squads of visiting journalists from US TV like CNN and Fox, will have little to show their viewers.

For many of the younger generation for whom he is just a name in the history books  his return means little, and thousands will be lining the Cinta Costera to watch the Christmas Parade which coincides with the time of his landing.

 For others, who suffered under his regime or  are related to people who died, his return and the possibility of clemency are of special concern. There are others, some still in office, who do not welcome the possible disclosure of their former close connections with the alleged killer.

Noriega spent 21 years in jail in the US for crimes related to drug smuggling and money laundering, and after his extradition to France was sentenced to another 7 years for money laundering. He has served only two. During his incarceration he was classified as a POW (Prisoner of War).

Government attempts early in the year to sell  his former home failed.