Panama: Teacher strike July 16 as electricity protests continue /update 1

Event

Protests to denounce a government plan to increase electricity prices by 8.3 percent continue to be held throughout the country, notably in the capital Panama City, as of Thursday, July 12. Furthermore, teachers in Panama City are set to hold a 24-hour strike on Monday, July 16, to denounce the price hike; an associated demonstration will be held at 14:00 (local time) at the National Assembly.

Context

Protests have been held in recent days in Panama City following the announcement the electricity price increase on July 6. On July 11, protests were held for the third consecutive day outside the offices of the Etesa utility company (Empresa de Transmisión Eléctrica, S.A.), located on Vía Ricardo J. Alfaro. Protests were also held by students at the University of Panama on Avenida Simón Bolívar, blocking road traffic. One officer was reported injured following violent clashes with demonstrators.

Advice

Individuals in Panama are advised to keep abreast of the situation and avoid all protests as a precaution.