In-depth reporting on government actions, political parties, and policy debates in Panama. We track elections, legislative changes, and the actors shaping public life.
Angela Russo’s election as Panama’s new ombudsman triggered immediate political reactions, highlighting divisions and alliances inside the National Assembly. The vote also drew attention to the importance of the office in defending citizens’ rights.
President José Raúl Mulino says Panama’s anti-violence strategy is being adjusted daily as the country faces a rise in homicides. By February 2026, 77 homicides had been recorded nationwide, making violence a major public security concern.
The death of Al Jazeera’s Wishah in Gaza has added to the growing toll of journalists killed since the war began in October 2023. The killing highlights the extreme danger facing media workers covering the conflict.
President José Raúl Mulino’s visit to Balboa port and the election of Ángela Russo as Ombudsperson marked two notable developments in Panama on April 9. Both events highlight the country’s focus on logistics and institutional oversight.
Panama’s president is moving to ease tensions involving China, highlighting the country’s careful balancing act between major powers. The diplomatic effort comes as Panama protects its strategic interests and canal-centered economy.
Panama’s president is working to ease tensions involving China, underscoring the country’s focus on stability, trade, and diplomatic balance. The move matters because Panama’s economy and the Canal depend on steady international relations.
The CSS opened an internal investigation after detecting irregular payroll practices involving public servants who allegedly simulated alimony deductions. The case highlights concerns over internal controls and accountability in a key Panamanian institution.
Panama President José Raúl Mulino is working to ease tensions with China as the country balances relations with Beijing and Washington. The move highlights the canal’s strategic role in Panama’s economy and diplomacy.
Cabinet ministers in Panama are pushing to remove SENADAP’s director after an investigation found a progressive breakdown in the institution. The case centers on alleged mismanagement and a lack of transparency.
President José Raúl Mulino toured Balboa Port after Panama’s constitutional ruling against the Panama Ports Company contract. The visit highlighted the government’s response as international arbitration moves forward.
Angela Russo’s appointment as Panama’s ombudsman prompted reactions from lawmakers and renewed attention on the role of the Defensoría del Pueblo. The choice puts a spotlight on oversight, human rights, and institutional independence.
Panama’s Social Security Fund uncovered alleged payroll fraud involving fake child support deductions used to pay a furniture store and filed a criminal complaint. The case raises fresh concerns about internal controls in a key public institution.
President José Raúl Mulino said Panama is entering a temporary transition in port management after a Supreme Court ruling and promised new concessions. He also announced technical support for the Bridge of the Americas after a nearby fire and reviewed plans for old waterfront tank facilities.
President José Raúl Mulino visited Balboa Port and discussed Panama’s upcoming port concessions, alongside the explosion reported beneath the Bridge of the Americas. The remarks highlight the government’s focus on infrastructure, logistics, and public safety.
Lucy Molinar has been summoned for a third Assembly hearing on Panama’s education system, with lawmakers demanding answers on laptops, FECE cuts, school food, and infrastructure. The committee wants documented responses on equity, school access, and delayed programs.
Ángela Russo, a former Supreme Court magistrate, was elected Panama’s defensor del Pueblo with 37 votes in the National Assembly. The vote drew support from multiple caucuses, underscoring the political significance of the post.
President José Raúl Mulino said there is no active operating contract with Maersk, clarifying that port management is under a temporary transition while the Panama Ports Company dispute goes to arbitration.
A court in Panama revoked house arrest for the representative of David and ordered him jailed while he faces an aggravated embezzlement case involving more than $4.4 million. The ruling intensifies a high-profile legal process tied to alleged misuse of public funds.
MIDES will issue severance and seniority payments to eligible former employees on April 9. The disbursements cover labor benefits owed to ex-functionaries.
A Chiriquí appeals court revoked house arrest for David representative Jorge Eduardo Montenegro Vallarino and ordered him back to prison in a corruption case tied to decentralization funds. The same probe also involves former community board treasurer Emgelberth Geovanny Estrada Linares.