Approximately 500 individuals gathered at First Quantum’s copper mine in Panama on Tuesday to voice their concerns over the planned closure of the facility. The protest aimed to pressure the Canadian mining company and local authorities to reconsider their decision, following a recent ruling by the Supreme Court deeming the contract unconstitutional.
Even prior to the court’s ruling, protests had effectively shut down the Cobre Panama mine by blocking access to the port that serves it. Last week, First Quantum’s local unit expressed deep concern after a union threatened to “invade” the site. However, as of Tuesday afternoon, the peaceful protest had dispersed.
Protesters brandished Panamanian flags and held banners proclaiming that “Panama is worth more without mining.” They claimed to have achieved a symbolic closure of the mine, stating that the fight against mining in Panama is ongoing.
First Quantum has been in discussions with the Panamanian government regarding the safe and orderly closure of the facility. Presently, the company still has equipment and workers on-site.
Opponents of the mine argue that the terms of the contract, which were initially agreed upon but subsequently overruled, were excessively favorable to First Quantum. Furthermore, they allege that corruption was involved in the approval process. First Quantum vehemently denies these allegations.
The closure of the Cobre Panama mine has had significant ramifications for Panama’s economy, with the country having to revise its growth forecasts for 2024. The mine accounted for roughly 5% of Panamanian GDP.
Protesters reiterate their demand for clarity from the government regarding the future of the mine. They call for a comprehensive plan addressing the closure, expressing frustration over the lack of transparency thus far.
The battle over the fate of the mine continues, as both sides dig in their heels and push for their respective interests.
The source of the article is from the blog mendozaextremo.com.ar