Today's News: Government calls for national dialogue amid intense protests
Panama is experiencing a critical day with the start of a national dialogue to attempt to resolve the social crisis the country is going through. While the Government and various civil groups seek agreements with the mediation of the Church, protests in the capital have led to clashes and transportation to the interior remains paralyzed.
This Thursday, July 14, at 3:00 p.m., the National Government will set up a dialogue table at the City of Knowledge, an educational and technological center in the capital, with the Catholic Church as mediator. This call responds to the need to find joint solutions following the constant demonstrations. In this context, the United Nations organization in Panama formally urged the authorities to reach a consensus that allows for the restoration of calm throughout the national territory.
Security in Panama City was affected on Wednesday by clashes at Plaza 5 de Mayo. Riot units used tear gas to disperse groups of protesters, resulting in several arrests. Tension in this area, near the National Assembly, remains one of the main points of conflict.
Regarding mobility, the Albrook Transport Terminal, the country's most important bus station, reports that most of its routes to the interior are suspended. Road closures have paralyzed routes from Chame to the province of Chiriquí, affecting thousands of travelers trying to move along the Inter-American Highway.
To alleviate the economic impact, the Government Innovation Authority (AIG) explained the process to access "Solidarity Fuel," a state subsidy for gasoline. Interested citizens must log into the official platform and complete a registration form to receive this economic benefit.
On the other hand, in the judicial sphere, various journalist unions have requested that the hearing for the Odebrecht case be public. This case, which involves investigations into bribes and corruption by the Brazilian construction company, is closely followed by citizens who demand greater transparency in the process.
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