Hairy hand blocking bribe probes

POLITICAL and civil society observers are united in their belief that there is a plot to prevent the truth coming out about the beneficiaries of the scores of millions paid in bribes paid by Odebrecht.

The alarm bells started with a statement from the Public Ministry (MP) that six penalty and collaboration agreements relating to the bribes are in jeopardy following a  ruling by substitute criminal judge Lania Batista, refusing more time to investigate.

The agreements would allow identifying those who received bribes or acted as intermediaries, and the banks and the firms that contributed to the cover-up.

Panameñista deputy José Antonio Domínguez summed up the concerns when he told La Prensa that  “there is a hairy hand trying to boycott” ” the agreements, and said it is significant that it is happening when Odebrecht still operates in the country.

Former Comptroller Carlos Vallarino said they want to “block” the agreements to cover up the front men who received the bribes and those who acted as intermediaries.

Foreign Minister Isabel de Saint Malo  Tweeted:”Complex case, confessed company, confessed citizens, Public Ministry doing its job. What else does Panamanian justice need to act? “

Former Comptroller Carlos Vallarino warned that there is an intention to “block” the agreements so that the front men who received the bribes and the final beneficiaries are not known.

Protest march
On Tuesday, October 31, at 4,30 pm a protest march will begin on Calle 50, to protest corruption and impunity. It will be supported by numerous civil organizations