In a statement issued from the province of Veraguas, this group rejected the attempts by the government of Jose Raul Mulino to silence the people, who also oppose the reopening of the copper mine in Donoso (Colon province) and the memorandum of understanding signed with the United States, which violates national sovereignty.

“We have witnessed and have been victims of the militarization of roads and highways within indigenous territories with high-caliber weapons and excessive use of force against a defenseless community, leaving some of our brothers and sisters on the brink of death in hospitals,” they slammed.

“This repression goes against children, women, and men, so we cannot remain silent or idle,” the document emphasizes.

They also urged other popular forces in Panama to support this struggle, in which the indigenous peoples will continue to fight to the bitter end, according to the document.

Taking advantage of the celebration of Global Climate Week 2025 in Panama, the group urged its indigenous representatives to denounce this massacre at the demonstrations also taking place in defense of their natural resources.

Indigenous authorities nationwide have decreed the suspension of all activities with the Executive Branch until the law is repealed, the violent repression and persecution of the defenseless population cease, the police force withdraws, the arbitrary arrests, and the rigged judicial processes cease, the collective stated.

The statement is circulating online at the time that residents of the native communities in Darién province are being repressed by riot police who are firing firecrackers and tear gas to disperse a peaceful demonstration.

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