Post by : Jyoti Gupta

Photo:AFP

The government of Panama has declared a state of emergency in Bocas del Toro, a western province known for its banana farming. This comes after violent protests that started two months ago got worse this week.

People in the region were angry about new pension rules that could make them work for more years before retirement. Workers at the banana company Chiquita went on strike in April, and many of them lost their jobs. Although the unions stopped the strike last week, other groups continued blocking roads with big tree trunks.

This week, things got out of control. In the city of Changuinola, some people set part of a baseball stadium on fire while police were inside. They also broke into shops, stole from the airport, and took vehicles from car rental companies. Supplies belonging to the banana company were also taken.

One person died, and about 30 people — including police — were hurt during the clashes. Over 50 people have been arrested.

The government said they are banning public gatherings to stop more violence. Officials say some groups are using the protests as an excuse to do damage and steal.

President Jose Raul Mulino is also facing protests for other reasons. In April, he made a deal with US President Donald Trump that lets American soldiers use military bases near the Panama Canal. Many people in Panama are upset about this and about his plans to reopen a large copper mine that could harm the environment.