Panama Ports: Gerardo Solís avaló la auditoría, pero el contralor Flores dice que nunca se refrendó | La Prensa Panamá

Conflicting Statements on Panama Ports Contract Renewal

The current Panamanian Comptroller, Anel Bolo Flores, claims that the extension of the contract between the Panamanian state and Panama Ports Company (PPC) was never approved by the Comptroller's office, contradicting statements made by the former Comptroller, Gerardo Solís. Flores alleges that previous findings were misinterpreted.

Solís's Role

However, evidence suggests that Solís played a significant role. He was responsible for the audit which concluded that PPC fulfilled contractual obligations, and he was part of the Maritime Authority's board that discussed the renewal. Despite calls for transparency, Solís cited confidentiality clauses to keep the audit details secret.

Secret Audit and the Maritime Authority's Decision

The audit's confidentiality and lack of transparency angered civil society organizations. The Maritime Authority board meeting minutes revealed Solís's controversial stance on PPC's dividend distribution and the sale of shares, which raised concerns about national interests. Ultimately, the board approved a 25-year contract extension, causing further indignation.