Very few English speaking or writing journalists have been following the recent strike dispute in Panama. The strike has paralyzed the border between Sixaola, Costa Rica, and Changuinola Panama. Reports say that up to 5000 banana plantation workers are striking against law 30, that was passed last year. They are striking against better wages and better working conditions.
Travelers apparently can still walk across the border, but the problem comes after the border. The strikers have erected barriers which don’t allow vehicles to pass.
There is a meeting scheduled for Saturday, July 10th at the University of Panama. The meeting hopes to to create solidarity with the workers, andd agree on a new national mobilization and picketing plan for a general strike. According to reports, they plan to demand the immediate release of around 30 workers who have already been arrested.
Local newspapers and reports go so far to call the Panamanian president, Ricardo Martinelli, a coward for heading to Italy and then the World Cup, instead of dealing with these problems. Rumor has it that Martinelli has signed a warrant for the arrest of SUNTRACS and FRENADESO union leaders.
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