Moscoso says Torrijos said sorry for persecution

After publication of WikiLeaks revelations of alleged bribery and disappearing millions of dollars during the presidency of Mireay Moscoso, she claimed that  her successor  asked for forgiveness for investigating her.

Martín Torrijos apparently asked Moscoso, to forgive him for investigating alleged acts of corruption after he took office.

The discussion apparently took place during a meeting organized by President Ricardo Martinelli with Panama's most recent ex-presidents, Moscoso, Torrijos and Ernesto Pérez Balladares.

The meeting was  said to be organized to discuss national issues, but  sources said that the issue of corruption during previous regimes was also brought up.

According to Moscoso, Torrijos told her that, "you were persecuted for five years for actions of the party that were not proven."

Former Comptroller Alvin Weeden said that the discussion shows the level of collusion that takes place at the highest reaches of government.

"I cover for you, you cover for me, and everyone is covered,"  said Weeden.   

He said that another example of this collusion was the fact that shortly after the meeting was held a judge announced the dismissal of corruption charges against Balladares..

The Moscoso government was accused of spending $23.4 million of discretionary funds on items such as travel, jewelry and other luxuries.

 Torrijos declined to comment about the allegations.