Weekly Report - 12 November 2009 (WR-09-45)

Against a backdrop of tension over the US-Colombia military bases deal, the rightwing government of President Ricardo Martinelli has triggered fresh concerns about increased US presence in the region, with the announcement of plans to build several new aerial-maritime bases in Panama. The government strenuously denies US involvement, stressing that the new stations, which are intended to combat organised crime, are a “completely Panamanian initiative". However, earlier remarks by government officials coupled with a recent visit to Washington by Martinelli, have left civil society groups suspicious and, on 11 November, university students clashed with police in Panama City during protests over the proposed bases.