In-depth reporting on government actions, political parties, and policy debates in Panama. We track elections, legislative changes, and the actors shaping public life.
Tensions over Iran and the Strait of Hormuz are putting pressure on Washington, with one analyst saying the US may need to end its blockade for the key waterway to fully reopen. The standoff carries global energy and shipping risks that could reach Panama through higher transport and fuel costs.
Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz remains a powerful deterrent, giving Tehran leverage over global energy flows without relying on nuclear weapons. The chokepoint’s importance makes any escalation a concern for markets worldwide.
Trump warned that the United States could resume bombing if no deal is reached with Iran, heightening tensions over Tehran’s nuclear programme. The remarks raise the stakes for diplomacy and global markets.
Iran has reopened the Strait of Hormuz but warned it could close the vital shipping lane again if the US blockade of Iranian ports continues. The move keeps pressure high in a conflict that could shake energy markets and global trade.
A new education critique says Panama has repeatedly overrelied on laptop programs without improving learning. It argues the country should invest more in schools, teachers, tutoring, and libraries.
A clash involving Comptroller Anel “Bolo” Flores, anticorruption prosecutors, and the Public Ministry has escalated into a broader test of Panama’s institutions. The silence from top officials has only sharpened scrutiny of the case.
Panama’s ATTT will require ride-hailing platforms to register under new rules that create operating certificates, vehicle standards and closer state oversight. The decree has drawn support from taxi leaders and criticism from some political figures.
The University of Panama is entering a rectoral election amid student complaints about crumbling infrastructure, broken bathrooms, and weak accountability. Candidates will campaign from May 29 to June 29 ahead of a July 1 vote that could shape the university’s direction for years.
Panama’s magistrates continue to receive 100 gallons of free gasoline a month under the Judicial Code, even as fuel prices rise across the country. The benefit has drawn attention amid government efforts to control spending and cushion transport costs.
Panama’s debate over official perks is sharpening as critics denounce fuel allowances, tax exemptions, and high salaries for lawmakers and judges. The controversy underscores wider concerns about inequality and how public money is shared.
Al-Noor, a UNRWA centre in Gaza, is helping blind and visually impaired children continue their education amid war and displacement. The centre has become a rare source of stability in a collapsing humanitarian environment.
Digital delivery work in Panama is drawing closer scrutiny as couriers face algorithmic control, unstable pay, and no clear labor protections. The debate is now centered on whether platform riders should be treated as employees or independent contractors.
Luis “Lucho” Moreno Tejeira is being remembered in Panama as a civic leader, banker, and public servant whose life blended resilience, discipline, and service. His legacy spans education, business, diplomacy, and Rotary work.
A political column says a 37-vote bloc has become the key force shaping Panama’s Assembly and the Mulino administration’s legislative strategy. It also argues that shifting party alliances are weakening traditional opposition lines.
A proposal to return government offices to central Colón is being framed as a low-cost way to boost foot traffic, commerce and safety. The idea also includes reusing abandoned buildings to bring life back to the city center.
Jaime Barroso’s election as magistrate of Panama’s Electoral Tribunal has sparked pressure inside the Vamos Coalition after three deputies broke ranks. The dispute is now drawing attention to party discipline and the political weight of the appointment.
Panama’s labor minister said irregularities were found during an inspection at the Fourth Bridge project and also addressed a strike by delivery couriers. Her comments highlight growing labor scrutiny in both public works and platform-based jobs.
Donald Trump thanked Gulf states after Iran fully reopened the Strait of Hormuz, easing fears over a key global oil chokepoint. The move matters for energy markets, shipping and trade stability worldwide.
Panama’s Labour Ministry says delivery riders for digital platforms are not formal workers, intensifying debate over labour protections during a strike. The dispute is putting pressure on the country’s rules for the growing gig economy.
Panama’s Labor Ministry has given the contractor for the Fourth Bridge 10 days to respond after labor complaints and concerns over workplace conditions. The move puts a major national infrastructure project under closer scrutiny.