Beleaguered ombudsperson fears nothing
I fear nothing, I am a woman of justice and law," said Panama’s beleaguered, ombudsperson Patria Portugal on Monday July 1 when she arrived at the National Assembly accompanied by bodyguards.
The institution is being investigated after a series of high priced irregular hirings totaling nearly half a million dollars, and extravagant expenditures on office fittings.
She told reporters, that the institution is "open" to all competent authorities. Everything is there".
Portugal also said she will wait to be called to the National Assembly to present her defense.
Asked if she will remain in her post she said: “Absolutely.” Portugal, and her guards had tried to dodge the media waiting in the legislature.
In recent days, President, Ricardo Martinelli, who has remained tight lipped as the potential scandal mushroomed said, the accusations for alleged acts of corruption against the Ombudsperson should be discussed in the National Assembly.