3 Panama Market Chains Reopen; Strike Weakened
The nation’s three largest supermarket chains reopened their stores today, signaling a major rupture in a 10-day general strike aimed at toppling strongman Gen. Manuel Antonio Noriega.
The government announced that the nation’s banks, closed since March 3 because of a cash shortage brought on by U.S. economic sanctions, will reopen Thursday with limited service.
It said there will be tight restrictions on withdrawals from savings and checking accounts.
The Gago, Rey and Super 99 markets in the capital were doing brisk business as Panamanians rushed to buy food and essentials that have been virtually unattainable.
The weakening of the strike came two days after a harsh crackdown on leaders of the National Civic Crusade, which is leading the anti-Noriega fight. More than 20 crusade directors were arrested Monday, detained overnight, then released. Crusade leaders have been reluctant to talk since their arrests. Some of those not detained were said to be in hiding.
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