In-depth reporting on government actions, political parties, and policy debates in Panama. We track elections, legislative changes, and the actors shaping public life.
A new commission has been installed to evaluate candidates for community judge posts across Panama. The body includes one Ministry of Government representative and two members of civil society.
Lebanon and Israel have opened new negotiations as fighting with Hezbollah continues, raising hopes for diplomacy but leaving the risk of escalation high. The talks come amid sustained US pressure for a breakthrough.
President José Raúl Mulino defended the growth of Panama’s state payroll, linking it to schools, hospitals and security needs. Economists Ernesto Bazán and Carlos Araúz said the increase worsens the deficit and does not prove the state is becoming more efficient.
Panama lawmakers questioned the National Assembly’s operating and payroll spending after approval of a $26 million transfer to the legislature. The decision has renewed debate over transparency and public spending priorities.
China may gain strategic ground as US pressure on Iran escalates, with knock-on effects for global energy markets and diplomacy. The standoff could also shape trade and shipping interests relevant to Panama and Latin America.
US Border Patrol chief Mike Banks has resigned as the Trump administration continues a major immigration overhaul inside Homeland Security. The change adds to a series of high-profile departures and could reverberate across migration routes in the Americas.
A senior U.S. economic official met with Panamanian authorities in Panama City to discuss strengthening economic and energy alliances. The visit highlights Panama’s role as a strategic partner in regional trade and cooperation.
Twelve people are on trial in Panama over the 2019 La Joyita prison massacre, which left 13 inmates dead and 11 wounded. The case has revived scrutiny of the country’s penitentiary system.
Lebanon is seeking a new ceasefire deal in U.S.-hosted talks with Israel, a rare direct diplomatic move as regional tensions remain high. Any breakthrough could help lower the risk of wider conflict in the Middle East.
U.S. Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg met with top Panamanian officials in Panama City during a regional tour focused on energy security and critical minerals. The talks highlighted continued U.S.-Panama cooperation on trade, supply chains, and shared economic growth.
President José Raúl Mulino ruled out changes to his Cabinet and defended the expansion of the state payroll, rejecting claims that the new posts are unnecessary. His comments reinforce a message of continuity as his administration enters its second year.
Eastern Cuba suffered a major blackout after a power grid collapse cut electricity from Guantánamo to Ciego de Ávila. Crews are working to restore service, but no timeline has been given.
President José Raúl Mulino addressed the situation at Unachi and the reported resignation of rector Etelvina de Bonagas while urging that water shortages not be politicized. His comments came during the inauguration of the Anillo Hidráulico Norte.
Panama’s diplomatic choice to recognize China over Taiwan is back in focus as tensions rise between Washington and Beijing. The dispute carries major implications for global trade and for Panama’s role as a shipping hub.
Panama has created a temporary 30-day transit regime for Latin American migrants involved in repatriation programs. The policy allows controlled stays while authorities coordinate returns, without granting residency or asylum.
Trump’s first meeting with Xi Jinping in nine years puts trade, Taiwan and Iran at the center of renewed U.S.-China diplomacy. The outcome could influence global commerce and regional stability, including in Latin America.
U.S. Undersecretary for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg held high-level meetings in Panama with officials from the Panamanian cabinet and the United States. The talks highlighted the importance of bilateral economic ties and Panama’s regional role.
Nepotism allegations at Unachi resurfaced after the university’s legal adviser denied family hiring claims, even as payroll records and Antai filings point to relatives on staff. The dispute has renewed scrutiny over transparency and public trust at the Chiriquí university.
Panamanian prosecutors want more time to continue the long-running investigation into the 1994 Alas Chiricanas plane bombing that killed 21 people. The case has been linked to Hezbollah and remains one of Panama’s most serious unresolved attacks.
Israel’s far-right security minister visited the Al-Aqsa compound during Jerusalem Day, intensifying tensions at one of the most volatile sites in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The move drew scrutiny because of the compound’s religious importance and political sensitivity.