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 political commentary warns that Panama’s weakening party system is pushing democracy toward a spectator model dominated by elites, media, and weak representation. It calls for stronger participation, accountability, and internal party reform.
Trump said there is no quick end to the war with Iran, even as the White House told Congress the hostilities had ended. The mixed messages point to continued uncertainty and a possible prolonged standoff.
A judge sentenced two former Río Indio officials to prison for peculado linked to more than $301,000 in irregular public funds. The case is part of a wider Panama anticorruption push over decentralized spending.
Trump has rejected Iran’s latest proposal while the White House weighs new military options and argues Congress does not need to authorize continued action. The dispute raises fresh questions about U.S. war powers and the risk of renewed escalation.
Trump said the U.S. will raise tariffs next week on cars and trucks imported from the European Union, heightening trade tensions with Brussels. The move could ripple through global auto supply chains and affect commerce well beyond Europe.
Senniaf called for immediate family contact and child protection measures when minors are briefly detained for violating the San Miguelito curfew. The guidance highlights the need to balance public security with the rights of children and adolescents.
Two Israeli and Palestinian writers are recounting an unlikely path to reconciliation in a new book, set against the backdrop of the Oct. 7 attack and the war in Gaza. Their story highlights the enduring challenge — and importance — of dialogue amid conflict.
Trump said he is not happy with Iran’s latest peace proposal, signaling a possible escalation in U.S.-Iran tensions. The remarks could heighten regional and global concerns over diplomacy, security, and energy markets.
Panama’s police chief has backed a weekend curfew in San Miguelito as a preventive security measure. The restriction runs until May 11 and includes exceptions for essential workers and justified travel.
Thousands marched in Panama City on May Day under a “workers over billionaires” banner, turning International Workers’ Day into a display of labor demands. The demonstration highlighted ongoing concerns about wages, inequality, and worker protections in Panama.
At least 12 people were killed in the latest Israeli strikes on Lebanon, deepening concern that the ceasefire is failing to halt the violence. More than 2,600 people have been killed since March 2.
Panama’s National Assembly approved a bill requiring clearer identification of food product origin and stronger labeling rules for originals, substitutes, and imitations. The measure also adds accessibility and enforcement provisions aimed at protecting consumers.
Pope Leo has appointed an El Salvador-born priest and outspoken advocate for immigrants as the next bishop in West Virginia. The choice highlights the Catholic Church’s continued focus on migration and its tension with Trump-era immigration politics.
Panama’s National Assembly has approved a bill that would criminalize paternity fraud, set prison terms and fines, and require DNA tests in court cases. The measure now awaits President José Raúl Mulino’s decision.
A Cuban man has died in U.S. ICE custody, becoming the 18th such death this year, according to a rights-monitoring group. The case is fueling fresh scrutiny of detention conditions as the Trump administration expands deportation efforts.
Trump said he was not satisfied with Iran’s latest proposal to end the war, signaling that diplomatic talks remain stalled. The conflict continues to raise concerns about regional escalation and global economic fallout.
Panama’s labor unions used May Day to call for dignified work and better labor conditions, framing the date as a day of struggle for social justice. The message highlighted workers’ rights as a continuing national concern.
Panama’s National Authority for Government Innovation opened a new 24-hour contact center for Line 311 with more than 50 agents. The service is meant to receive complaints, claims, and suggestions from the public.
José Luis Varela said the Executive branch needed to better explain the bioethanol bill, while Alexandra Brenes linked its suspension to concerns over sugar mill board members tied to government circles. The debate has raised broader questions about transparency and public trust.
Panama’s National Assembly approved a bill that eases long-standing protections for coral reefs and seagrass beds, shifting more discretion to the Ministry of Environment. Conservationists warn the change could expose key marine ecosystems to greater development pressure.