Calls for court resignations widen

REPRESENTATIVES   of over a dozen civil society groups too their demand  for the resignation of the Chief Supreme Court  to the steps of the court on Thursday, September 14.

Since  Jose Ayu Prado’s reelection as president of Court 20 different groups such as the Citizens Alliance for Justice have expressed their dissatisfaction because they say it does not help to restore citizens’ trust in Panamanian justice.

Wearing labels  “Ayu Renuncia” and through  social networks citizens have called for Ayu Prado. To step down. He has refused.

Nelva Reyes, general secretary of the General Workers  Association , said she believes the appointment of Ayu Prado is a mockery of the Panamanian people.

Reyes said civil society has long demanded transparency in the Panamanian justice system. She recalled that Ayu Prado has eight lawsuits in the National Assembly. “All the Panamanian people have to join in one voice” to demand the resignation of the presiding judge.

Magaly Castillo, executive secretary of the Citizens Alliance for Justice indicated that they originally organized the demonstration to  call for the resignation of  Ayu Prado, but after listening to the statements of Judge Harry Diaz  all members of the Supreme Court should resign.

Castillo said that this situation cannot continue and it is no longer just a matter of changing some members . “ This is  a Supreme Court without credibility. The country cannot continue living like this.”