Hundreds of protesters took to the streets of Panama again on Wednesday to express their disapproval of the government’s failed efforts to curb the surge in precision, among other demands.
In various parts of the Central American country, protesters blocked roads and stopped trucks carrying mostly food to markets, a pressure tactic that has been increasingly used since protests broke out two weeks ago.
According to the latest official data, inflation rose to 5.2% in June.
“The situation is critical,” said Umberto Moreno, a member of a Union of Teachers seeking a meeting with the government to demand increased spending on education.
Protesters are calling on the government to curb public spending, with the exception of health and education, and end corruption.
Blockades of major road arteries have caused shortages, especially of agricultural products, in Panama’s capital.
Since the beginning of the protests, the government of President Laurentino Cortisso, which has implemented austerity measures and “frozen” the prices of gasoline and diesel, has tried to reach an agreement with the protesters.
On Tuesday, police fired tear gas to disperse protesters who had blocked a highway in the western part of the country. “If the police continue their repression efforts, that will have an impact on the dialogue,” Moreno said.
Producers have asked protesters to allow “safe corridors” to distribute food and basic necessities.
Panama’s Ministry of Agricultural Development did not respond to a Reuters request for comment.
SOURCE: AMPE
Source: Capital
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