The local groups organized actions and demonstrations in Bocas del Toro, Chiriquí and Veraguas provinces and in the Ngäbé Büglé village, reports Radio Temblor.

The document published by local groups says that in the recent months and as a result of a series of social conflicts, Panama “is again the scene of cries for dignity and rebellion”.

In the declaration the National Network of People Affected by Dams and Mines of Panama, demands Ricardo Martinelli’s government to “immediately call off” the construction of all hydro-electric projects and mining concessions in the country.

They also demand “justice and immediate compensation” for the damages caused by Bayano, Estí and Chan 75 municipalities owned by AES transnational corporation. They expose the “death and persecution” suffered by the opposers of hydroelectric projects in Chiriqui province.

Some of the demands include the reppeal of a decree enacted in August that amended the Regulation on Environmental Impact Studies “thus reducing the citizen participation and facilitating the fast and unplanned development of projects”.

The government’s fulfillment of its commitment to pass a law that bans mining and protects water resources, as well as the ratification of ILO’s Convention 169 on indigenous peoples rights, are also some of the demands.

Panamanian organizations conclude the declaration with a quote by Mexican activist Bety Cariño, who was murdered in 2010: “They are afraid of us because we are not afraid of them. We will continue fighting for life”.

*Audio report by Radio Temblor

Photo: Radio Temblor

Los Naso, un pueblo en resistencia from Otramérica TV on Vimeo.