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 Panamanian judge approved review of security videos linked to an incident involving Comptroller Anel Flores at the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office. The case is tied to a broader investigation involving former Vice President José Gabriel Carrizo.
Panama’s National Assembly had 386 advisers on its April 2026 payroll, costing at least $13.3 million a year. The lower headcount still leaves adviser salaries among the legislature’s most expensive spending items.
Panama’s institutions are being tested after images of the comptroller at an anti-corruption proceeding triggered a legal and political debate. The case now hinges on whether prosecutors and the Supreme Court act with independence and due process.
President Donald Trump has rejected Iran’s response to a US peace proposal, calling it “totally unacceptable” and signaling a major setback in diplomacy. The standoff could have knock-on effects for global oil prices, shipping, and regional stability.
Panama’s proposed Fiscal Code reform is drawing legal scrutiny over a 15% tax penalty for companies that fail to prove real economic presence. Lawyers are urging lawmakers to fine-tune the measure so it strengthens tax oversight without discouraging investment.
Panama’s wave of independent deputies entered the National Assembly promising change, but growing criticism now centers on weak results and populist policy ideas. The debate underscores voter frustration with politics that looks new but acts like the old system.
Residents of Ancón have accused representative Yamireth Batista of using community board funds for a birthday party with live music and paid entry. The case has intensified debate over transparency and the use of public money in local government.
Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of violating a ceasefire, highlighting the fragility of any pause in the war. The exchange adds to longstanding doubts about whether diplomacy can restrain fighting for long.
Debate over Panama’s bioethanol bill centers on whether fuel blending should be mandatory to ensure investment, quality control and stable supply. Supporters say a required standard would preserve consumer choice while helping build a workable renewable fuel policy.
A commentary on Panama’s water crisis says the core problem is not scarcity but poor management at IDAAN. It proposes a technical role for the Panama Canal Authority and a long-term national water plan.
A former Panamanian diplomat argues that the Neutrality Treaty has been used beyond its original intent and warns against U.S. pressure over Panama’s China ties. The commentary connects today’s disputes to the Canal treaties and the country’s sovereignty.
Roberto Hernández’s work placed ethics, logic, and bioethics at the center of academic life in Panama. His books continue to offer a framework for discussing difficult moral issues with clarity and rigor.
Trump rejected Tehran’s latest response as tensions in the Iran-Israel conflict deepened, while Iranian forces warned they were ready if war resumes. Israeli strikes in Lebanon also killed two medics, underscoring the conflict’s widening humanitarian toll.
Veraguas has become the only province in Panama with territorial planning in all of its districts, setting a model for other provinces. Chiriquí, Herrera, and Los Santos have already begun following its lead.
Panama’s Administration Prosecutor’s Office backed the National Assembly’s authority to exempt staff from attendance marking under its internal rules. The opinion comes as lawmakers and the Comptroller’s Office clash over salary holds on 43 employees.
Panama is mourning the death of Alberto Paz-Rodríguez, director of the Agencia Panameña de Alimentos. President José Raúl Mulino praised his performance and expressed condolences.
Trump is expected to press Xi Jinping on China’s purchases of Iranian oil during his visit, part of a wider push to squeeze Tehran amid Middle East conflict. The talks could influence sanctions enforcement, global energy markets and prices felt in Panama and Latin America.
Lebanese doctors are treating devastating internal injuries caused by tiny tungsten cubes in Israeli munitions, echoing wounds seen in Gaza. The pattern adds to concerns about civilian harm in the regional conflict.
Unachi Rector Etelvina Medianero de Bonagas has resurfaced as the university faces a 34% budget cut and new scrutiny over retroactive payments. The institution is also under investigation for alleged irregularities and nepotism.
Panama’s Environment Ministry is reviewing whether the Vista Azul project near Condado del Rey has a valid environmental impact study. Residents of about 70 neighborhoods are warning that the large development could worsen traffic and strain local infrastructure.