Martinelli reacts to reports on government hand outs

President Ricardo Martinelli said Tuesday February 26 that all legislators, both from the opposition and the government, have petitioned him for funds for projects within their districts.

Martinelli was responding to an article published in La Prensa that the Executive, through the Ministry of Economy and Finance, has transferred millions of dollars from the opposition to pro-government deputies to execute works and give gifts to their constituents.

 The money is sent – at the request of the legislator – to community boards, municipalities or the National Aid program.

Martinelli said that this money is not assigned to the member, but is intended for the management of projects. He added that funds granted to community boards are audited by the Office of the Comptroller General.

President Ricardo Martinelli said Tuesday February 26 that all legislators, both from the opposition and the government, have petitioned him for funds for projects within their districts.

Martinelli was responding to an article published in La Prensa that the Executive, through the Ministry of Economy and Finance, has transferred millions of dollars from the opposition to pro-government deputies to execute works and give gifts to their constituents.
 The money is sent – at the request of the legislator – to community boards, municipalities or the National Aid program.
Martinelli said that this money is not assigned to the member, but is intended for the management of projects. He added that funds granted to community boards are audited by the Office of the Comptroller General.