Panama Union Leader Seeks Asylum in Bolivian Embassy Amid Protests

Panama Union Leader Seeks Asylum

A top union leader in Panama, Saul Mendez, involved in protests against President Jose Raul Mulino, has sought asylum at the Bolivian embassy in Panama City. This follows the arrest of a colleague and escalating tensions between the Suntracs construction union and the government.

Asylum Request at Bolivian Embassy

According to Panama's foreign ministry, Mendez climbed the fence of the Bolivian embassy early Wednesday morning, requesting political asylum. The embassy has informed Panama that the request is under consideration by Bolivia's national refugee council.

Arrest Warrants and Raids

Following Mendez's asylum request, prosecutors announced arrest warrants against "Panamanian citizens" as part of an investigation into Suntracs for suspected aggravated fraud, money laundering, and illicit association. Local media reports suggest that these warrants target Mendez and former union leader Genaro Lopez. Masked police also raided several Suntracs offices, including its headquarters in Panama City.

Union Protests and Government Response

President Mulino has labeled the left-wing union "a mafia." Suntracs frequently leads protests against the right-wing government on issues ranging from social security reforms to agreements allowing US troops to deploy to bases along the Panama Canal. The union is also a key organizer of an indefinite strike by construction workers that has been ongoing for almost a month.