Call for resignation of Panamas Ombudsman

CLAIMING that the role of Panama’s Ombudman’s office against the abuse of power has vanished, a political group has called for the immediate resignation of Patria Portugal.

A series of scandals have emerged from her office and on Friday, June 6 the youth arm of the Partido Popular (PP) called today for Ombudsman Portugal to step down.

For three weeks, harsh criticism against Portugal and the entity which she directs has not ceased since the reporting of controversial contracts. These have included spending $250,000 for the redesign of the web site of the entity, as well as high prices for hats, office supplies and a sofa.
The PP, in a statement, said the Ombudsman has refused to answer questions about the issues, issuing only "skimpy releases" arguing that the proceedings were transparent.
"The citizens are waiting for transparency and probity in administrative actions, and demands the immediate resignation of Patria Portugal and a prompt investigation into the contracts," the party said.
In the same vein, they demanded greater control from authorities and transparency in exercising their role.
In addition, they argue that the supervisory role of the institution against the abuse of power has vanished, distorting the functions for which it was established.
For three weeks, the harsh criticism against Portugal and the entity which she directs has not ceased since the reporting of controversial contracts. These have included spending $250,000 for the redesign of the web site of the entity, as well as high prices for hats, office supplies and a sofa.