The hand of friendship

Two television programs, in which commentators defend the government, of President Ricardo Martinelli depend almost 100 percent on government advertising says La Prensa.
The shows are "Cuentas claras" hosted by lawyer Carlos Zavala and "Analizando opiniones" hosted by Panameñista Luis Eduardo Camacho.
The shows are broadcast on channels 35 and 68, both owned by government official Alfredo Prieto.
La Prensa monitored theprograms between Jan. 27 and Feb. 5 and found that almost all the ads are sponsored by the government.
Based on average rates, the government spent $81,000 on ads during this period.