Hundreds of Panamanian construction workers held a demonstration at a closed copper mine as a form of nationalistic expression in Panama. The workers, members of the Suntracs union, gathered at the entrance of the mine, operated by Canada’s First Quantum Minerals Ltd., waving flags and hanging a large sign that emphasized the sovereignty of the territory. One worker even padlocked the gates shut with a chain.
The protest, which was organized by Suntracs, coincided with Martyrs’ Day, a day that memorializes anti-US riots in 1964 that were sparked by concerns about Panama Canal sovereignty. Saul Mendez, the head of the union, addressed the workers and demonstrated their determination to keep the mine permanently closed, even after the upcoming presidential elections in May. Mendez urged union members to support Maribel Gordon, an independent candidate who has consistently opposed the mine, despite her current polling being last.
The demonstration represents the significant role that resource nationalism has played in the closure of the Cobre Panama mine. A dispute over extending the operating contract for the mine led to street protests, a withdrawal of government support, and a Supreme Court ban. These events occurred in the lead-up to the general elections. First Quantum and another union representing the mine workers have both called for security forces to prevent any potential unrest at the mine site, where the Canadian company still has workers and infrastructure.
In addition to the mine protest, Suntracs is also staging protests in Panama City and several provinces in response to the closure of union bank accounts. The union’s concerns and grievances regarding these matters are yet to be addressed.
The source of the article is from the blog portaldoriograndense.com