Panamanian Ex-Deputy's Plea: Block Swearing-In of Former Leaders

Panamá: Ex-Deputy Demands Accountability, Urges Parlacen President to Block Swearing In of Cortizo and Carrizo Former Panamanian deputy Zulay Rodríguez has called on the president of the Central American Parliament (Parlacen), Carlos Hernández, to prevent the swearing-in of former President Laurentino "Nito" Cortizo and former Vice President José Gabriel "Gaby" Carrizo as deputies. Rodríguez's request, supported by a majority of parliamentarians present, stems from concerns about potential bias if the case reaches the Supreme Court of Justice. She argues that Cortizo and Carrizo should first be held accountable before the Public Ministry. "I ask you, for Panamanian justice, for the people, for them, for the four million, that you do not swear in either Nito or Gaby," Rodríguez stated in a direct appeal to Hernández. She voiced strong concerns about the impartiality of the Supreme Court, given that Cortizo and Carrizo appointed its justices. "They put the Supreme Court justices in place, and they are not going to investigate them," she warned. Rodríguez's statement also included a reference to El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele, stating, "You represent Bukele. Bukele is a man who has fought against corruption and has El Salvador in first place. He is very admired." She expressed her belief that Bukele, and by extension Hernández, desires justice to be served. This event underscores ongoing concerns about accountability and transparency within Panamanian politics. The outcome of Rodríguez's request will have significant implications for the political landscape of the country.