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 City has signed an agreement to reuse treated water for municipal irrigation and other public uses, in a move aimed at improving sustainability and water management. Officials expect the program to save more than 1.5 million gallons each dry season.
Panama is moving toward authorizing First Quantum to extract and ship material from the shuttered Cobre Panama mine. The decision could mark a major step toward restarting activity at one of the country’s most important mining projects.
Public Works Minister José Luis Andrade appeared before the National Assembly to answer questions about the planned expansion of Vía España. Merchants also attended to express concerns and views on the impact of the project.
Trump claimed the U.S. has intercepted communications showing Iranians asking for continued bombing, a remark that sharpened already tense U.S.-Iran rhetoric. The statement adds to global concern over possible escalation in the Middle East.
Jairo Salazar and Ernesto Cedeño exchanged words during a National Assembly session in the presence of the Public Works minister. The confrontation highlighted the tense atmosphere that often surrounds legislative oversight in Panama.
Venezuela’s government and opposition are trying to coordinate a joint legal defence of the country’s US assets as creditors seek to seize funds. The unusual move highlights the stakes of a court fight that could affect Venezuela’s financial future abroad.
Officials from Panama’s Public Works Ministry and Río Abajo merchants clashed in the National Assembly over the planned widening of Vía España. The dispute reflects the broader tension between urban infrastructure projects and the businesses affected by them.
Panama’s Ministry of Commerce and Industries announced the removal of material from Cobre Panamá after technical reports labeled it an environmental risk. The decision keeps the controversial mine at the center of the country’s environmental and economic debate.
A verbal clash between deputies Ernesto Cedeño and Jairo Salazar broke out during the Public Works minister’s appearance before the National Assembly’s Commerce Commission. The exchange added tension to an oversight hearing in Panama’s legislature.
Panama’s National Assembly has received the list of candidates for Defensor del Pueblo, advancing the selection process for the country’s human rights ombudsman. Lawmakers are also weighing whether to narrow the field to a short list before the final vote.
Panama is among about 40 countries that agreed to consider sanctions on Iran if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed and to oppose tolls on ships using the passage. The move reflects growing concern over one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints.
Rescue crews are searching damaged homes in Iran after US-Israeli strikes hit residential areas, escalating tensions in an already volatile conflict. The attack raises fresh concerns about civilian harm and wider regional fallout.
Panama lawmakers are considering a bill that would raise pensions for retirees and pensioners who receive less than $600 a month. The proposal is now headed to a second debate in the National Assembly.
Eight Blue Apple convicts are still awaiting prison because their cassation appeal remains pending before the Supreme Court. The case has already produced prison terms, fines and asset seizures tied to corruption in public works contracts.
U.S. lawmakers visiting Cuba say the island’s worsening energy crisis shows the need for a permanent change in Washington’s approach. Their remarks renew debate over sanctions, humanitarian impact and regional consequences.
Panama will use a digital platform to manage a fuel subsidy for transport operators, with the aim of preventing fare increases for passengers. The system will verify registered vehicles and authorized drivers before allowing access to the benefit.
Panama will host the OAS CICTE 2026 meeting, where regional leaders will discuss terrorism financing and emerging security threats. The event underscores Panama’s role as a hub for diplomacy, finance, and regional cooperation.
Panama’s Government Committee has opened the formal session to choose the next Defensor del Pueblo, after interviewing 32 candidates. The selection will determine who replaces Eduardo Leblanc in the country’s public-rights watchdog office.
Panama’s Commission of December 20 continues exhumation work while reviewing earlier identifications of remains after detecting inaccuracies. The effort remains tied to the country’s 1989 invasion legacy and the search for historical clarity.
Ukraine says it is still willing to pursue a limited ceasefire with Russia if Moscow stops attacking energy infrastructure. The talks also hinge on security guarantees Kyiv says are essential for any lasting peace.