A conflict in Isla Colón, province of Bocas del Toro, with the Techos de Esperanza project of the Ministry of Housing and Territorial Planning has reached alarming levels that could lead to a tragedy. According to reports from affected individuals, anarchy and violence have taken over the community, reaching terrifying situations where gang members armed with machetes evict residents who acquired their homes legally.
According to testimonies collected by La Verdad Panamá, the root of the problem lies with the current mayor of the Revolutionary Party (PRD), a former corregimiento representative, who allegedly gave away houses during the elections without considering whether the beneficiaries met the legal requirements. The houses awaiting delivery have also been forcibly taken by gang members, while the community remains defenseless due to the lack of action from the National Police.
"The gang members have evicted me from my legally obtained home," revealed one of the affected individuals, while videos circulating on social media show how these violent people expel entire families and immediately change the locks. These are stories of terror, of shattered hopes, and of individuals feeling abandoned by the authorities, as the Ministry of Housing and Territorial Planning has not intervened to protect the rights of these Panamanian citizens.
The Techos de Esperanza project in Isla Colón consists of 486 homes, but the current situation is generating chaos and fear among residents. It is urgent for the authorities to take measures to ensure the safety of those who meet the requirements for access to dignified housing.
