[Watch Video] Who is Kenneth Darlington? Gunman kills two climate protestors blocking road in Panama - Spotify Vibes

A 77-year-old lawyer and professor, Kenneth Darlington, allegedly shot and killed two environmental protesters in Panama over a mining dispute. The incident has exposed the deep social and environmental divisions in Panama, and has raised questions about the role of mining and the protection of human rights in the country.

How a US-Panama Lawyer Killed Two Climate Activists Over a Mining Dispute

On Wednesday, November 8, 2023, a shocking incident occurred in Panama, where a 77-year-old lawyer and professor, Kenneth Darlington, allegedly shot and killed two environmental protesters who were blocking the Pan-American Highway in Chame, 51 miles from the capital Panama City. The victims, identified as Abdiel Diaz, a teacher and union activist, and Ivan Mendoza, were reportedly protesting a controversial mining contract that allowed Canada-based First Quantum Minerals to operate Panama's largest pit copper mine for several years.

The shooting was captured on video by several witnesses and circulated online, sparking outrage and condemnation. The video showed Darlington, who holds dual citizenship in the US and Panama, walking from his car, directing protesters to get out of the way. Shortly after, he pulled out a gun while seemingly arguing with the protesters. Moments later, he opened fire, killing one of them on the scene. The second victim was rushed to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Darlington was arrested by the police and handcuffed to a pipe. He was identified as a lawyer and professor who had worked at the University of Panama and the Inter-American University of Panama. He had also written several books on law and politics. According to some reports, he had a history of mental health issues and had been involved in a previous shooting incident in 2017, where he wounded a man who had allegedly tried to rob him.

The violence came during the third week of protests over a large mining contract that allows First Quantum Minerals to operate the Cobre Panama mine, the region’s largest pit copper mine, for at least 20 more years. The contract was signed in 1997 by the government of then-President Ernesto Perez Balladares, who is currently facing corruption charges. The protesters, who belong to various social and environmental organizations, claim that the contract is illegal, unfair, and harmful to the environment and the local communities. They demand that the contract be renegotiated or canceled, and that the mine be nationalized.

The roadblocks have caused up to $80 million in daily losses to businesses and have shuttered schools nationwide for more than a week. The Pan-American Highway is the world’s largest route, spanning from Alaska to Argentina with a break in the Darién Gap². The government of President Laurentino Cortizo has tried to negotiate with the protesters, but no agreement has been reached so far. Cortizo sent his condolences to the dead protesters’ families, saying that such a crime “has no place” in his nation’s supportive society.

The shooting of the climate activists by Darlington has sparked a national debate on the issues of gun control, mining, and environmental justice in Panama. Some people have expressed sympathy and support for Darlington, arguing that he acted in self-defense and that the protesters were violating his right to mobility. Others have condemned Darlington as a murderer and a terrorist, and have called for justice for the victims and their families. Many have also criticized the government for its handling of the mining contract and the protests, and have demanded more transparency and accountability.

The case of Darlington is expected to face a lengthy legal process, as he could face charges of homicide, attempted homicide, and illegal possession of firearms. He could also face extradition requests from the US, where he is wanted for tax evasion and fraud. The fate of the mining contract and the protests remains uncertain, as the conflict between the government and the protesters continues to escalate. The shooting of the climate activists by Darlington has exposed the deep social and environmental divisions in Panama, and has raised questions about the role of mining and the protection of human rights in the country.

Watch Kenneth Ddarlington Shooting Video

Conclusion:

The shooting of the climate activists by Kenneth Darlington has shocked and outraged the nation of Panama, and has brought attention to the ongoing conflict over the mining contract that allows First Quantum Minerals to operate the Cobre Panama mine for several years. The incident has also sparked a debate on the issues of gun control, mining, and environmental justice in Panama, and has raised questions about the role of mining and the protection of human rights in the country. The case of Darlington is expected to face a lengthy legal process, as he could face charges of homicide, attempted homicide, and illegal possession of firearms. He could also face extradition requests from the US, where he is wanted for tax evasion and fraud. The fate of the mining contract and the protests remains uncertain, as the government and the protesters have failed to reach an agreement so far.

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