Thousands protested in Panama City on Friday, May 23, 2025, against the arrest of two union leaders. The leaders, who belong to the construction union Suntracs, are accused of money laundering. Protesters claim the arrests are political persecution by the government of President José Raúl Mulino.
The protests also target Mulino's recent policies, including social security reforms and an agreement with the U.S. allowing troop deployment to protect the Panama Canal. Saul Méndez, another Suntracs leader, has sought asylum in the Bolivian embassy. Demonstrators marched peacefully, carrying Panamanian flags and monitored by police.
The government denies the charges are politically motivated. Mulino has refused to negotiate with Suntracs, calling them a "mafia." The prosecutor's office has raided Suntracs offices and issued arrest warrants for other union officials.