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Key Findings of the National Assembly Payroll Audit

A recent audit by Panama's General Comptroller's Office (CGR) of the National Assembly's (AN) payroll has uncovered significant variations in spending across different offices. The audit reveals a total payroll of 4,022 individuals, costing nearly $7.1 million bi-weekly, or approximately $85.2 million annually—equivalent to 86% of the legislature's 2025 budget.

Highest and Lowest Spending Offices

The audit highlights significant disparities:

• Highest Spending: Benicio Robinson's office leads with a monthly expenditure of $261,225, followed by Marcos Castillero ($226,282), Jaime Vargas ($164,120), and Crispiano Adames ($122,850).
• Lowest Spending: Janine Prado ($6,750), Eduardo Gaitán ($6,800), and Jorge Bloise ($7,000) represent the lowest monthly spending.

These discrepancies raise concerns about the allocation of resources within the National Assembly.

Unclear Allocation and Other Issues

The audit also reveals several issues:

• Unassigned Personnel: 386 individuals are listed as 'unlocated,' amounting to a monthly cost of $673,819.
• Inconsistent Salary Reporting: The audit reports a bi-weekly salary of $900 for each principal deputy, differing from their actual monthly salary of $7,000.
• Low Attendance, High Payroll: Deputy Omar Ortega, with minimal attendance, has a monthly payroll of $51,825 for 30 personnel.
• Personnel Assigned to External Entities: Some personnel are assigned to local governments and other external entities like the Panama West Governor's Office and the Colón Free Zone.

Additional Details

The audit also provides details on the salaries of former deputies now employed by the Assembly, spending on departments such as Radio and Television and Public Relations, and details on the audit process undertaken by the CGR.