Panama: Anti-corruption march in Panama City March 22

Event

Several unions are planning to hold an anti-corruption protest in Panama City on Thursday, March 22. The Single Union of Construction and Similar Workers (Suntracs), along with the National Front for the Defense of Economic and Social Rights of Panama (Frenadeso) and the National Union of Workers of the Construction Industry, are planning to hold a march starting at 16:00 (local time). Demonstrators are going to gather at Parque Porras before traveling to the National Assembly. Additional rallies are expected on Balboa Avenue and the Pan-American Highway. Increased security measures and localized transportation disruptions are expected around the protests.

Context

The unions are protesting the mismanagement of state funds as well as expressing their solidarity with workers in Colón. Unions in Colón staged strikes and demonstrations on March 13 and March 14 to demand that the government address municipal issues related to education, gentrification, security, waste management, and the water supply.

Advice

Individuals in Panama City are advised to avoid all protests as a precaution.