A proposed law in Panama's National Assembly is causing widespread alarm, as it's seen as a direct attack on the independence of the Judicial Branch and the separation of powers. The bill seeks to benefit two former presidents, one convicted and another accused of high-profile corruption cases.
The initiative faces strong opposition from various sectors, including the Catholic Church, the Chamber of Commerce, the ruling PRD party, and the Vamos coalition. This broad-based rejection highlights the gravity of the situation.
The article expresses deep concern about the potential for weakening democratic institutions. The authors question the motives behind the bill, suggesting it's driven by self-interest rather than legitimate governance. The lack of transparency, with some deputies refusing to state their positions, is condemned as cowardly.
The potential long-term consequences of allowing such a bill to pass are emphasized, including the possibility of future attacks on the Executive branch and a broader erosion of the rule of law. The author warns that silence or complicity could have lasting negative effects for generations.