Following a controversy caused by statements made by the Attorney General of the Nation, the Panamanian business sector is demanding that a thorough investigation be carried out, asserting that things are moving “dangerously towards the exhaustion of any principle of legality”.

From a statement issued by the Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture of Panama (CCIAP): 

After the serious statements made by the Attorney General of the Nation, Kenia Porcell, against the Justice System, the Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture of Panama (CCIAP) is demanding pertinent investigations be made within the Rule of Law and due process; since we are advancing dangerously towards the exhaustion of every principle of legality.

“We have insistently stressed the need to have institutions within the rule of law, and that this be applied to all equally,” said Gabriel Barletta, president of the CCIAP. “What transcended on the supposed content and form of a conversation between two high officials of the Public Ministry and the Judicial Organ, leaves in question the transparency and independence of such Organs; in addition to causing a lot of doubts and questions,” Barletta pointed out.

The CCIAP emphasizes the need to recover the country’s institutions, since lack of widespread credibility makes us look like a failed state, where there is no climate of seriousness and this has negative effects not only in our society, but in terms of a decrease of investments and sources of employment.

“National patience has run out; therefore, in the coming days, the business sector as a whole will be proposing specific actions to improve our administration of justice,” said the president of the CCIAP.