Mayer Mizrachi’s Mayoral Decree Sparks Controversy in Panama
In the bustling city of Panama, Mayor Mayer Mizrachi has stirred up a storm with two decrees related to the regulation of activities on the upcoming 9th of January, a day that commemorates the patriotic events of 1964. These decrees have raised a chorus of critical voices and sparked heated debates across the nation.
Deciphering the Decrees
To grasp the essence of this issue, it is crucial to delve into the specifics of the decrees issued by Mayor Mizrachi. Initially, on December 30, 2024, the Mayor issued Decree No. 13, which mandated the suspension of «the use of music boxes, symphonies, and other musical instruments, as well as any noise emissions and the hosting of parties, public shows, and dance activities with musical accompaniment by orchestras, ensembles, or other means of music dissemination from 6:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. on Thursday, January 9, 2025.» This departure from the traditional 24-hour dry law on January 9 raised eyebrows and fueled debates.
Subsequently, on Monday, January 6, another mayoral decree (Decree No. 1 of 2025) was issued, imposing restrictions on the consumption and sale of alcoholic beverages, albeit for only 12 hours, from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 9. This decree outlined the suspension of alcohol sales and consumption in all commercial establishments within the Panama district during the stipulated hours, along with the closure of bars, liquor stores, taverns, nightclubs, grills, and other public entertainment venues.
Reactions and Backlash
The tide of public opinion swiftly turned against these measures, with prominent figures voicing their dissent. Arturo Trelles, a lawyer and former student leader, publicly denounced the Mayor’s actions, citing a breach of Law 118 of 2013, which designates January 9 as the National Sovereignty Day, commemorated as the National Mourning Day in honor of the martyrs of January 9.
In response to the escalating controversy, Deputy Betsarai Richards condemned Mayor Mizrachi for overstepping his authority and disregarding the sanctity of January 9 as a day of national mourning. Richards emphasized the need to uphold respect for the sacrifices of the martyrs and the collective memory of Panamanians who have fought to preserve the significance of this date.
The districts of La Chorrera and Arraiján have opted for a 24-hour dry law on January 9, contrasting sharply with Panama City’s regulations. These decrees also carry penalties of up to $1,000 for non-compliance.
Reflecting on the Events of January 9
The events of January 9 hold profound historical significance for Panama, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s struggle for sovereignty and dignity. On that fateful day, a group of Panamanian students from the National Institute staged a protest in the Canal Zone, demanding the right to raise the national flag alongside the American flag, as stipulated in the Chiari-Kennedy Agreement of June 13, 1962. This demand, ignored by the US authorities in Panama, sparked violent clashes that claimed the lives of 22 Panamanians.
As the nation grapples with the implications of Mayor Mizrachi’s decrees, it is essential to remember the sacrifices made on January 9 and honor the memory of those who laid down their lives for Panama’s freedom and sovereignty.
Con información de Meredith Serracín y Luis Jiménez.