Government political intimidation condemned

THE COMMISSION of Justice and Peace has condemned Panama’s government for the use of state resources for political intimidation.

The commission said Thursday, August 8, that the government should promote a climate of peace and tolerance and also called on it to avoid the "practice of patronage."

In a letter sent to the media, the commission said that it "condemns the use of state resources in favor or against any policy proposal and the abuse of the dignity of public servants implicit in their use as a tool of political intimidation."
It also requested the Electoral Tribunal to regulate the equitable use of spaces in the media to give equal opportunities to the candidates and political parties during the election campaign.
It also demanded that the authorities and political parties moderate the tone of the campaign.
In terms of the media, it requested they refrain from transmitting, publishing or reproducing information whose content is defamatory, disrespects human dignity or does not contribute to a climate of peace.
The political environment has been heated in recent weeks and reports have been made of the use of state television to favor pro-government candidates and the use of state employees to intimidate the opposition.

The ruling party (CD) has not signed on to the Ethical Election agreement. (Pacto Etico Electoral)