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’s Assembly ends its ordinary sessions with no anti-corruption reforms and renewed scrutiny over political deals, public spending, and oversight. A legal challenge against the comptroller is also set to intensify the debate.
Panama is facing renewed scrutiny after a comptroller entered a judicial proceeding on April 9, prompting questions about institutional respect and accountability. The Public Ministry’s investigation continues as a guarantees judge takes a central role in the case.
Panama’s Cabinet has authorized a bill that could alter the law setting education funding at 7% of GDP. The move has reignited debate over school investment, budget execution, and the condition of public classrooms.
Vamos says 43 Assembly workers remain on the job without pay after the Comptroller’s Office changed their status during a dispute with the caucus. The conflict has now reached the Supreme Court and deepened tensions between the legislature and Comptroller Anel Flores.
Newly released footage shows a heavy firefight between Mali’s military and rebels, underscoring the country’s deepening security crisis. The conflict has wider implications across the Sahel and for global geopolitics.
Panama’s Budget Committee approved funding for consulting and technical advisory work on the Panama–David–Border train, specifically the Albrook-Sajalices section. The move advances the project’s planning phase.
Oil prices surged after Trump met with oil executives as Washington’s blockade of Iranian ports fueled fears of a prolonged supply shock. The jump could raise fuel and transport costs in Panama and across Latin America.
The United States and allies are backing Panama’s sovereignty as China expands its influence in the region. The country’s strategic role around the Panama Canal makes it central to global diplomacy and trade.
A heated debate in Panama is growing over how prosecutors and judges handle sexual violence cases, especially when plea deals or noncustodial measures are used. Critics say the justice system must better reflect recent tougher penalties and restore public trust.
Azuero’s water emergency is the result of years of pollution, weak oversight, and delayed action. Wells may help in the short term, but only a full watershed recovery plan can solve the crisis.
Panama’s public universities are confronting a proposed 2026 budget cut of more than $156 million, raising fears about research, infrastructure, and access. The debate has widened into a larger question about education, autonomy, and national development.
The United States has indicted Sinaloa Governor Ruben Rocha Moya and nine others, alleging ties to cartel leaders in a major corruption case. The move puts renewed focus on organized crime’s influence in Mexico and its wider regional impact.
A plan to widen Vía España in Río Abajo has triggered criticism over the planned removal of about 200 century-old caobo trees. The dispute has reopened debate in Panama City over traffic relief, urban heritage, and tree preservation.
Panama’s new OECD agreement signals a deeper effort to align with global standards and strengthen its international credibility. The move does not launch a formal accession process, but it could lay the groundwork for one in the future.
China has accused the United States of hypocrisy over its comments on Panama’s sovereignty, deepening a diplomatic dispute tied to ports and maritime interests. The standoff highlights Panama’s strategic importance in global trade and the sensitivity of foreign influence.
Israeli forces intercepted around a dozen Gaza-bound aid boats from the Global Sumud Flotilla, stopping them far from the enclave. The move adds to the long-running international dispute over Gaza’s blockade and humanitarian access.
Panama lawmakers are considering a proposal to raise prison terms for adolescents over 14 who commit grave crimes such as homicide, kidnapping, and rape. The plan would allow sentences of up to 15 years.
Panama has reaffirmed the neutrality of the Panama Canal as the Middle East war heightens global shipping concerns. The move highlights the canal’s strategic role in world trade and Panama’s interest in maintaining stability.
Residents in Colón are challenging permanent checkpoints, saying they hinder movement while the province faces more than 20 homicides in the opening months of the year. A citizen group says it has gathered 5,000 signatures to push for shorter checkpoint hours.
Hundreds of people rallied in Tehran to denounce U.S. threats and demand relief from pressure on Iranian ports. The protest highlights rising tensions that could ripple through energy and shipping markets worldwide.