Judges re-election bid questioned

SUPREME Court President Alejandro Moncada Luna announcement that he plans to seek re-election when his term expires in December has raised concerns among civil groups .

Lawyer and university professor Miguel Antonio Bernal says that alternating power in various institutions, such as the Supreme Court and University of Panama, strengthens democracy and institutions within the country.

"If we want to be a republic, there should be an alternative at all times," he said.
Carlos Lee, a member of the Citizen's Alliance for Justice, said that although Moncada Luna does not have any legal restriction preventing his re-election, "all organs of power in democracy are based on alternating power, and that is healthy for the judiciary."
Lee said that the Supreme Court needs to have a change in power "so it can achieve a change in the image that the judiciary has at the moment."
Bar Association President Juan Carlos Araúz said that the law is clear on the matter, and the president of the Supreme Court can be re-elected.
He said the group will work with whoever is elected to the position.
"The National Bar Association is sending a message that it will work in harmony for the benefit of the country and justice," said Arauz.