Noriega Trip Sparks Rumors He Is Stepping Down in Panama

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic — Panama’s military strongman, Manuel A. Noriega, arrived here Saturday for an unannounced weekend visit, igniting rumors that he was abandoning power and had fled his country.

In Panama City, the rumors fueled street celebrations that spread from the capital to other areas, with thousands of participants beeping car horns and waving white flags and handkerchiefs, witnesses said.

Noriega, who spoke briefly with reporters upon his arrival, said he was in Santo Domingo on personal business and denied it had anything to do with the politics of Panama, where he has been under increasing pressure to step down following widespread demonstrations against his rule that began last June.

Late Saturday, dozens of riot police in Panama City fired tear gas and dispersed the crowd. Witnesses said several people were arrested, but there was no report of injuries or estimate of the number arrested.

Noriega’s general staff issued a statement that said Noriega and his family left for “a private visit” for the weekend.

In an unpublicized meeting with Noriega on Dec. 30, Richard L. Armitage, assistant U.S. secretary of defense for international security, urged him to step down and allow free elections.