The Control of the Former Rector and her Political Network: Unachi-AIP the University’s ‘Slush Fund’
Pictured below is former rector Etelvina Medianero de Bonagas left and administrative vice-rector Rosa Moreno Araúz to the right. Meduca informed the Public Prosecutor’s Office about the organization’s handling of funds so that it could evaluate a possible investigation.
The Public Interest Association Autonomous University of Chiriquí (Unachi-AIP), created in 2023 during the administration of the controversial former rector Etelvina Medianero de Bonagas to attract and manage funds for programs and projects linked to the university, is under scrutiny by the authorities. The creation of public interest associations (AIPs) is regulated by law, and in fact, several universities and research centers in the country have one. In the case of Unachi-AIP, it was created in December 2023, and according to its critics, the then-rector Etelvina Medianero de Bonagas ensured broad control over its governance structure. This is a continuing story so stay tuned for updates……….
After the Resignation of Etelvina Medianero de Bonagas Unachi Announces the Date for the Election of the New Rector
The Autonomous University of Chiriquí (Unachi) pictured above, through its Superior Electoral Court (TSE), announced the Extraordinary Election Calendar for the selection of the rector who will complete the 2023-2028 period. This comes after the resignation of Etelvina Medianero de Bonagas amid a financial crisis. The interim rector is Pedro González. The nomination of candidates will take place from June 15 to 17 and the election will be on August 19.
A Request Has Been Made to the Comptroller’s Office to Freeze Payments to Vice-Rectors of Unachi. Are the Charges Still Legal?
In a note submitted to the Comptroller’s Office, it is argued that perhaps the position of vice-rector is freely appointed and depends directly on the trust of the person who occupies the rectorship. The resignation of the controversial rector of the Autonomous University of Chiriquí (Unachi), Etelvina Medianero de Bonagas, continues to generate repercussions within the university community. The request was submitted in a letter dated June 9, 2026, in David, Chiriquí province. That document states that the freely appointed position of vice-rector depends directly on the trust of the person holding the rectorship.
