In-depth reporting on government actions, political parties, and policy debates in Panama. We track elections, legislative changes, and the actors shaping public life.
Tensions between the National Assembly and Comptroller Anel Flores escalated after a postponed meeting and renewed pressure over unpaid-leave cases. Lawmakers also delayed debate on a controversial bioethanol bill and revisited a previous energy law.
Panama’s water crisis in Azuero is drawing sharp criticism as emergency well drilling replaces a long-term solution. The low execution of Idaan’s budget has intensified questions about government management.
A commentary on Panama’s Vamos movement argues that coalitions of independents can end up functioning like parties without the same accountability. It calls for honest political structures and warns against voter confusion.
The National Assembly suspended second debate on Bill 443 on bioethanol, postponing the discussion until the next legislative period. The decision passed with broad support as lawmakers near the end of the current session.
MiBus general manager Carlos Sánchez Fábrega presented the company’s 2025 management report to a National Assembly committee, saying coverage exceeded 80%. He said 2026 priorities include modernizing the system and strengthening the electric fleet.
Cole Tomas Allen has been formally charged with trying to assassinate US President Donald Trump. The case has raised serious questions about political violence and security around major public figures.
Panama’s education system faces mounting criticism for failing to match today’s realities, with weak international results and persistent structural gaps. The debate now centers on how to build a curriculum that better prepares students for work, citizenship and life.
The Panama Papers remain a defining symbol of offshore secrecy and the global struggle over tax transparency. Panama continues to be central to the debate over hidden wealth and financial opacity.
Antonio Tercero González was ratified as director of Idaan after a heated Assembly debate over Panama’s water crisis. Deputies pressed him to improve service, reduce tanker dependence, and restore confidence in the utility.
Authorities in Chiriquí arrested a man wanted on 13 capture orders linked to sexual offenses. The case highlights ongoing efforts in Panama to enforce active judicial warrants.
Electoral prosecutors are reviewing the use of municipal buses in Arraiján after vehicles were seen carrying the mayor’s image. The investigation follows a later inspection in which the images had been covered with stickers.
The UN has warned that the US-Iran standoff in the Strait of Hormuz could trigger a global food emergency. Trump is reviewing a peace plan as pressure builds to keep the vital shipping route open.
Anti-corruption prosecutors inspected the Ministry of Education after a complaint over fake diplomas used in teacher hiring contests for 2026. The case centers on 50 suspected falsified documents and possible involvement by officials and private individuals.
Israeli settlers set fire to a Palestinian home in Jalud, underscoring the rising violence and insecurity in the occupied West Bank. The attack adds pressure on an already fragile regional situation.
Panama brought concerns over detained Panamanian-flagged vessels and Strait of Hormuz disruptions before the United Nations. The move highlights the country’s focus on protecting its maritime registry and shipping interests.
The Electoral Prosecutor’s Office returned to the Arraiján municipal headquarters on Monday for an inspection tied to buses, but did not find the person it was seeking. The visit highlights continuing scrutiny of local administration in one of Panama Province’s most important commuter districts.
Panama’s National Assembly suspended second-reading debate on the bioethanol bill to allow for a deeper review in the coming months. Lawmakers kept the proposal in place rather than sending it back to first debate.
Panama’s National Assembly suspended debate on a bill that would require a 10% ethanol blend in gasoline, deferring the issue to the next legislative session. The motion passed 55-0, with one abstention.
Anticorruption prosecutors inspected Panama’s Ministry of Education after a complaint over alleged fake diplomas. The case raises concerns about document verification and integrity in public service.
U.S. Ambassador Kevin Marino Cabrera visited Corporación La Prensa in Panama City, meeting with newsroom leaders and board members. The discussions covered migration, health cooperation, drug trafficking, and other bilateral issues.