In-depth reporting on government actions, political parties, and policy debates in Panama. We track elections, legislative changes, and the actors shaping public life.
An Israeli strike in Gaza killed five people, including three children, as Gaza officials said Israel has violated the October ceasefire deal 2,400 times. The attack adds fresh pressure on an already fragile truce.
Iran says it is ready for talks but blames the United States for blocking progress, as a fragile ceasefire remains under strain. The standoff could still affect regional stability, energy markets and global shipping.
A historical look at U.S. “big stick” diplomacy revisits Panama’s independence and the early canal deal that shaped the country’s future. The episode remains central to understanding Panama’s sovereignty and strategic role in global trade.
Vamos deputies are warning that Panama’s ethanol bill could raise food, consumer and environmental risks. They are pushing for stricter safeguards before any mandatory fuel blend advances.
Panama is working to meet EU deadlines that could remove the country from the bloc’s tax haven list in October 2026. The plan hinges on a Fiscal Code reform and progress on international transparency standards.
A citizen has asked Panama City Mayor Mayer Mizrachi to clarify spending on advisers, advertising and the suspension of Calle 50 works. City Hall says it will respond within the legal deadline and disputes some of the figures cited.
Panama’s political tensions are deepening over the bioethanol bill, Contraloría salary suspensions, and repeated ministerial no-shows before the Assembly. The dispute now extends to Parlacen, where efforts to seek protection for former officials met a blunt rejection.
Panama’s 311 citizen hotline will move to new operator SITMAS on May 1 after an open bidding process. Officials say the change will improve service, reduce wait times, and end years of direct contracting.
The reaffirmation of Ricardo Martinelli’s New Business conviction strengthens the case against his persecution narrative and puts fresh pressure on his asylum claim. The ruling also raises broader questions about rule of law and equal justice in Panama.
Panama is facing renewed debate over why political salaries often outpace teachers’ pay while public schools continue to rely on patchwork repairs. The discussion has also revived calls for a more structured annual maintenance plan.
CADE 2026 opened in Panama with a debate on OECD standards, trust, and the reforms needed to attract investment and create jobs. The forum marks 60 years of CADE as APEDE pushes a long-term competitiveness agenda.
The U.S. Army is preparing to create an AI-based autonomous warfighting force in Panama, underscoring the country’s strategic role in regional security. The move highlights how advanced military technology is increasingly shaping defense planning in Latin America.
An Israeli strike in southern Lebanon killed journalist Amal Khalil and wounded Zeinab Faraj in a targeted double-tap attack. The incident underscores the growing danger to civilians and reporters near the Israel-Lebanon frontier.
Residents and merchants along Vía España are weighing steps to oppose a road expansion plan in Panama City. The dispute highlights concerns over the project’s effect on homes, businesses, and daily traffic.
Panama’s National Assembly reopened debate on Bill 443, which would require a 10% ethanol blend in gasoline, as lawmakers raised concerns about cost, legality and market effects. The discussion will continue Thursday after two minority reports urged rejection of the measure.
Panama’s Education Ministry has denounced a corruption network accused of inserting false diplomas into teacher eligibility records. Officials say 50 forged diplomas have already been identified.
An ICSID tribunal has excluded counsel in a real estate investor claim against Panama, adding a key procedural twist to the arbitration. The ruling may affect how the dispute proceeds and how investors view legal risk in the country.
Panama is revisiting the legacy of its National Education Dialogue 25 years later, with renewed focus on execution, governance, and long-term reform. The debate centers on linking education to national development rather than relying on consensus alone.
The Ifarhu economic aid case has grown to 39 defendants after nine more people were charged with corruption and embezzlement. A judge declined precautionary measures, while prosecutors continue probing how aid funds were awarded and used.
School dropout in Panama is being framed not only as a social problem but as a legal test of the country’s duty to guarantee education. The issue highlights the need for earlier intervention, stronger support systems, and coordinated action to keep students in school.