OFF THE CUFF: Varela attacked for inaction

ALREADY portrayed by Panama political cartoonists as a tortoise, and under attack by civil groups for failing to veto the notorious shield law which protects deputies, judges (and the president) against criminal prosecution, President Juan Carlos Varela is  now  facing criticism for his refusal to face up to  a problem  at Panama Canal Authority (ACP).

There have been widespread calls for him to  remove Nicolás Corcione from the Canal’sBoard of Directors due to his constant absences from meetings.

“The executive has to leave those decisions to the judiciary and the Public Prosecutor’s Office,” said Varela.

Three board members, Adolfo Ahumada, Ricardo De La Espriella and Elías Castillo, have called on Varela to remove Corcione, who is being investigated for money laundering and who has fled the country, based on an ACP rule that states members may be removed “for the commission of an offense against public administration.” The president can order the removal with the approval of the Cabinet and the National Assembly.

Corcionne has been hiding behind his seat on the Boardto avoid facing the Senioe Prosecutor Against Organized Crime

Annette Planells, of the Independent Movement (Movin) a strong supporter  of Varela during the election and his first year in office,, said that it is “important” that Varela take action on this matter. Planells said Corcione is obliged to attend the sessions of the ACP, and “if he does not, the president must exercise his authority and remove him.”

Former Electoral Court Judge Guillermo Marquez indicated that there appears to be “a lack of willingness of the executive to solve this conflic.”

Roberto Troncoso, of the Citizen’s Forum, said Corcione is endangering the image of the ACP, so he should be removed reports La Prensa.