Panama Indians win withdrawal of dam, mines law

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PANAMA CITY (AP) – Legislators in Panama have agreed to reconsider a law on dams and mining that set off disruptive protests by Indians and their supporters.

The decision is a partial victory for the Ngobe-Bugle tribe, which has led highway blockades since Jan. 30 to oppose the new law. Its initial approval last month drew anger because it would theoretically allow the construction of dams on Indian lands in western Panama.

A congressional commission decided late Wednesday to return the law to debate, and Indian representatives and legislators have begun discussions on possible modifications.

Laws in Panama must win approval in three separate votes in Congress.