PANAMA FLASH! | Panama City – November 27th , 2023
Persistent Nationwide Protests Unfold Across Panama
Activists representing various labor organizations, including the Sindicato Unico Nacional de Trabajadores de la Industria de la Construccion y Similares (SUNTRACS), as well as members from education and indigenous groups, are anticipated to sustain their ongoing series of demonstrations across Panama until at least early December. The focal point of their protests is the mining contract forged between the Panamanian government and First Quantum Minerals.
Since the commencement of deliberations on the contract’s constitutionality on Nov. 24, demonstrators have been congregating outside the Supreme Court building in Panama City. The unrest is expected to endure in the lead-up to and following the court’s ruling, contingent upon the decision reached.
While protesters have predominantly gathered in proximity to key locations such as the National Assembly, Presidential Palace, and the University of Panama, they are likely to persist in obstructing major thoroughfares nationwide, including Via Transistmica and Via Centenario. This deliberate disruption of traffic is intended to impact the capital and other urban centers significantly.
Despite the ongoing protests, the Panama Canal is operating without any disruption and remains fully functional.
Currently, local terminals are functioning at Level 1; however, they are still encountering logistical difficulties in efficiently connecting containers and goods.
Delays in crew changes and the delivery of spares and provisions may occur as a result of road closures, potentially impacting the punctual connection of crews to vessels and the timely delivery of spare parts.
Norton Lilly’s Panama operations team remains dedicated to addressing the requirements of our principals and the vessels under our care. We are available around the clock through our 24-hour mobile numbers and Duty Officers, ensuring that your needs are promptly attended to.
For additional information, please reach out to our operators at operations@nortonlilly.com.pa and shipmgtpanama@nortonlilly.com.pa
Norton Lilly International (Panama) S.A.
Bldg. 3825 – Office 204
Howard – Panama-Pacifico
Panama, Rep. of Panama
Tel: (507) 304-4600
Main email: operations@nortonlilly.com.pa (24 hours)
