Panama Quick Reads for August 23 & 24 of 2026
That war seems like it will never end.
The relentless battle between Mayor Irma Hernández, the Vamos district representatives, and those from other political movements and parties has only just begun. Irma is determined to cut their budget.
They Released their Statement.
The Attorney General’s Office issued a statement indicating that precautionary measures or house arrests are the responsibility of the Judicial Branch. They maintain that their operations are in accordance with the law.
A Multi-Million Dollar Investment.
There’s positive feedback about ENA’s project to improve and expand the Southern Corridor. It’s an older project with an initial investment of around $300 million. It will include more lanes, no toll booths, and the use of advanced technology for toll collection and recharges.
The Inauguration.
On Monday, September 7, Engineer Ilya R. Espino de Marotta will be sworn in as the new administrator of the Panama Canal. The formal ceremony will take place at 7:30 a.m. in the Canal’s administration building.
Long Live Christmas Bonuses!
The budget committee continues to debate the funds allocated for Christmas bonuses and payments for health and life insurance. Each official must explain and justify these expenditures in detail.
It went straight at them.
The former president of the National Assembly went straight for the Vamos party deputies. He asserted that they all “manage” projects for their community, but criticize others for doing the same.
Heading to Tinajitas.
The former director of the General Directorate of Revenue (DGI) Publio De Gracia was imprisoned in Tinajitas prison. The former director of IFARHU, Bernardo Meneses (Nando) pictured below, has also been held there since last year.
The First Reports from the Regional Teams.
The Ministry of Education (MEDUCA) says that Minister Ventura Vega pictured above has met with regional directors to request a report on the projects they are in charge of and their positions. More than one has already stabbed Lucy Molinar, pictured below, in the back.
That’s Not Saving Money.
What’s the story behind the SIACAP board members wanting to increase their meeting allowance from $300 to $500? They staunchly defended it in the budget committee.
