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 National Assembly commemorated the 200th anniversary of the Amphictyonic Congress, honoring a landmark moment in the country’s history and regional diplomacy. The ceremony highlighted the enduring value of unity and cooperation behind the 1826 gathering.
President José Raúl Mulino signed a law in Panama that criminalizes exhibitionism and sets prison terms of up to six years. The penalty rises to four years when the conduct occurs in schools.
US-Iran talks remain stalled, keeping pressure on global markets as oil prices climb and experts warn of longer-term disruptions. The impasse could ripple into shipping, energy costs, and inflation across Latin America.
Panama has enacted Law 520 to require orderly transitions in communal boards and municipalities, with strict reporting duties and penalties for poor handovers. The measure aims to improve transparency, fiscal control, and continuity in local government.
Panama has started transferring about 400 women inmates from CEFERE to the new La Esmeralda women’s center. The facility is designed to improve prison conditions and support rehabilitation through education and training.
Panama has started moving women inmates to the new La Esmeralda female detention center. The facility is intended to improve conditions and strengthen resocialization efforts.
The U.S. Embassy in Panama has opened its Professional Internship Program for university students. The initiative offers young people a chance to gain practical experience in a diplomatic setting.
China’s detention of nearly 70 Panamanian-flagged ships has triggered criticism from the U.S. and Latin American governments amid a dispute tied to a Panama Canal ruling. The confrontation underscores the canal’s global importance and Panama’s strategic role in maritime trade.
Panama’s Maritime Authority has opened a market study for the reconstruction of the Almirante pier, with information accepted until May 14, 2026. The project points to possible upgrades in a key maritime area of Bocas del Toro.
King Charles called for NATO unity and continued support for Ukraine in a rare address to the U.S. Congress during a four-day visit to America. The speech highlighted transatlantic ties at a time of ongoing pressure over the war in Europe.
JNIM has declared a total siege on Mali’s capital, Bamako, escalating a years-long insurgency and raising fears of deeper instability in the Sahel. The move threatens security, trade and civilian life in the country’s political centre.
The hearing in the Pinchazos case against Ronny Rodríguez and William Pittí was suspended, extending a proceeding tied to alleged peculado over surveillance equipment purchases. A judge had already taken the legal time to issue a ruling in an April 24 hearing.
Panama’s Law 520 requires outgoing mayors and representatives to submit a management report within 30 calendar days after leaving office. The measure formalizes accountability during local government transitions.
Finance Minister Felipe Chapman denied any role in Panama’s bioethanol bill as the proposal faces scrutiny over family and business ties. The debate has also raised questions about conflicts of interest inside the government.
A U.S. special forces soldier has pleaded not guilty to charges of using classified information tied to a Maduro operation to profit on Polymarket. The case raises concerns about intelligence security, insider trading, and the regional fallout of U.S.-Venezuela tensions.
Donald Trump publicly rebuked German Chancellor Friedrich Merz over criticism of the U.S. war on Iran, deepening a transatlantic split. The clash underscores growing divisions among Western allies at a moment of high global tension.
Panama received joint support from the United States and several regional governments in a statement backing its sovereignty. The message also pointed to concerns about Chinese economic pressure and Panama’s strategic role.
Panama’s Law 521 makes exhibitionism a crime, with prison terms of up to six years for sexual acts or genital exposure in public spaces. The measure strengthens penalties for conduct carried out openly in areas accessible to the public.
The United States led a regional show of support for Panama in a dispute with China over the canal, calling Beijing’s actions a threat. The move underscores the canal’s strategic importance in global trade and regional diplomacy.
The US war with Iran has reached its 60th day, putting pressure on Congress to decide whether to authorize continued military action. The standoff raises constitutional questions and could have wider economic and geopolitical effects.