Diputados de la Asamblea proponen voto de censura contra el canciller Martínez Acha | La Prensa Panamá

Vote of No Confidence Against Panamanian Foreign Minister

Panamanian legislators are pushing for a vote of no confidence against Foreign Minister Javier Martínez Acha, citing concerns about a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed with the United States. The MOU, signed on April 9, 2025, is criticized for potentially compromising Panama's sovereignty and the neutrality of the Panama Canal.

Key Concerns

The resolution initiating the vote of no confidence highlights several key concerns:

• Sovereignty Concerns: The MOU is perceived as allowing extensive use of Panamanian territory and facilities by US personnel and contractors, potentially violating national sovereignty.
• Treaty Violation: The resolution argues that the MOU's scope surpasses typical cooperation and should have been approved by the Assembly and possibly via a national referendum.
• Ministerial Conduct: The resolution criticizes the Minister's recent defiant and dismissive public statements.

The resolution references international jurisprudence to support the argument that the MOU constitutes a binding treaty. The required two-thirds majority vote (47 votes) for approval of the no-confidence motion is expected to be a challenge to achieve.

Context and Background

The crisis stems from rising tensions with the United States. The resignation of the Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carlos Ruíz Hernández, further exacerbates the situation; he cited concerns regarding the US respecting Panama's sovereignty over the canal as his reason for resigning.

Significance

A successful vote of no confidence would constitute a significant political blow to the government and foreign minister. The situation underscores ongoing tensions between Panama and the US regarding the Panama Canal and national sovereignty.