---
title: "PRD Seeks Parlacen Swearing-In for Cortizo and Carrizo"
date: 2026-04-17
author: ""
url: https://panamadaily.news/parlacen-swearing-in-cortizo-carrizo-2/
categories:
  - "News"
  - "Politics"
tags:
  - "Benicio Robinson"
  - "José Gabriel Carrizo"
  - "Laurentino Cortizo"
  - "Panama politics"
  - "Parlacen"
  - "PRD"
---

# PRD Seeks Parlacen Swearing-In for Cortizo and Carrizo

## What Happened

Benicio Robinson, president of the Democratic Revolutionary Party (PRD), asked that the swearing-in of Laurentino Cortizo and José Gabriel Carrizo be added to the agenda of the Central American Parliament, known as Parlacen.

The request places two of Panama’s most recognizable political figures back into a regional institutional setting after their terms in the Executive Branch. Cortizo served as president of Panama, while Carrizo was vice president under his administration.

## Political Context

The PRD remains one of the country’s most influential political parties and has played a central role in national politics for decades. Moving Cortizo and Carrizo into Parlacen would extend their visibility in a body that brings together political representatives from Central America and the Dominican Republic.

Parlacen often serves as a forum for regional political coordination and debate. For Panama, participation in the institution can also carry symbolic weight, especially when leading figures from the governing past transition into regional roles.

## Why It Matters

Any move to swear in Cortizo and Carrizo would draw attention because both men occupied the highest offices of state during the previous administration. Their inclusion in Parlacen would keep them active in public life and could influence the PRD’s broader political strategy heading into the next phase of national debate.

The request also highlights the continuing role of party leadership in shaping the next steps for former officials after leaving office. In Panama, such transitions often remain closely watched because they can affect alliances, internal party balance, and public perception.