In-depth reporting on government actions, political parties, and policy debates in Panama. We track elections, legislative changes, and the actors shaping public life.
Panama has opened its first cyber monitoring center as part of a broader effort to respond to hacking threats. The new initiative underscores the growing importance of cybersecurity for government and private-sector operations.
Ángela Russo has been elected Panama’s Ombudsperson for 2026-2031 after a tense Assembly vote shaped by shifting political alliances. The result puts a key human-rights institution under new leadership amid broader legislative maneuvering.
Panama’s Decree 10 on digital transport platforms has triggered criticism and renewed debate over how app-based ride services should be regulated. The issue pits calls for order against concerns about limiting a growing mobility option.
Panama’s new decree for ride-hailing platforms is drawing sharp criticism for requiring operating permits, transport backing, and taxi-style rules. Opponents say the changes could raise costs, reduce competition, and weaken app-based mobility.
Panama’s president is facing criticism over frequent travel abroad as many citizens call for stronger attention to domestic problems. The debate is sharpening around whether the government’s “con paso firme” message still reflects reality.
North Korea fired multiple ballistic missiles from its eastern Sinpo area in its seventh launch test of the year, escalating regional tensions again. The move highlights the regime’s continued weapons development and the broader security risks for Asia and beyond.
Panama’s government has launched its first Cybersecurity Operations Center to monitor state networks in real time amid a rise in cyberattacks. The new unit adds to recent investments in tools designed to detect threats before they spread.
Iran says the Strait of Hormuz will stay closed until the US ends what Tehran calls a blockade of Iranian ports, raising fears of wider disruption to global trade and energy supplies. The standoff could push up shipping and fuel costs far beyond the Middle East, including in Latin America.
A sharp Panamanian opinion column criticizes the government’s reliance on U.S. engineers for key public tasks, from water issues in Azuero to bridge inspections. The piece argues that the pattern reflects weak local capacity and broader frustrations over governance and sovereignty.
Panama’s Ministry of Health has banned the use of mental health certificates for jobs, school enrollment and routine administrative procedures. The move is meant to curb discrimination and enforce national protections for mental health rights.
Panama’s Ministry of Economy and Finance clarified the process for CEPANIM beneficiaries and said no official payment list is circulating. The warning aims to prevent fraud and confusion around benefit payments.
Iran has pushed back hard against US pressure over the Strait of Hormuz, warning that American actions amount to blackmail. The standoff raises concerns for global energy prices and maritime security.
Panama’s government has launched its first Cybersecurity Operations Center to monitor state networks in real time as attacks rise. Officials say the new unit is part of a wider push to detect threats earlier and strengthen digital defenses.
Mexico, Spain and Brazil have called for Cuba’s sovereignty to be respected and pledged more aid, pushing back against U.S. pressure on Havana. The move highlights ongoing debates over intervention, regional diplomacy and Cuba’s deepening economic crisis.
Iran’s military ordered an Indian vessel to abort its transit of the Strait of Hormuz, spotlighting renewed risk in one of the world’s most important shipping lanes.
Israel has announced a new “yellow line” in Lebanon, using a term it has also applied in Gaza. The move highlights the growing formalization of the Israel-Lebanon conflict zone and the risk of wider regional escalation.
Israeli strikes on ambulances in Lebanon killed four paramedics and wounded six others, prompting condemnation from the UN human rights office. The attack has renewed fears for civilian protection and medical neutrality in the conflict.
Ernesto Cedeño said he will challenge the decree regulating digital transport platforms in Panama, arguing that some government decisions do not align with the Constitution and the law.
Panama’s new decree on ride-hailing services has sparked backlash over fears it revives the country’s traditional transport cupo system. Critics say the rules could limit vehicle availability, increase bureaucracy and weaken competition.
Panamanian officials welcomed the U.S. Coast Guard cutter CSG 11 in Panama City, highlighting Panama’s role as a major maritime crossroads. The visit reflects ongoing cooperation tied to shipping, security, and the Panama Canal.