History Repeats: The Fight for Panama's Mineral Wealth

The author, Ricardo Wong, president of the PROMAR Foundation, states that history repeats itself and it seems we have reached a moment where we face a similar situation. He compares the current situation to colonial times when the world's eyes were fixed on the Isthmus due to the wealth passing through Panama. Today, all eyes are on the mineral wealth of the country. The author claims that the mining industry is trying to portray its activities as 'green,' 'sustainable,' and 'environmentally friendly,' but most Panamanians prefer development without mining. Everything related to mining, for the author, 'smells of a crow combined with a stench of corruption.' He criticizes paid campaigns in the media and the work of experts who, in his opinion, work for mining companies. The author recalls that two years ago, popular protests against the mining contract and the subsequent moratorium on concessions stopped the project. However, this has not stopped foreign and local businessmen who dream of seizing the country's mineral wealth. The author sees this as a conspiracy, comparing modern 'pirates'—Bona-Varilla, Morgan, and Drake—to historical figures. He asserts that people understand that such projects will only benefit a small group and will not benefit the country. In conclusion, he notes that despite failures in public opinion, opponents of mining are being systematically attacked.