Four criminal investigations are underway against Carlos PĂ©rez Herrera, former representative of San Francisco, Panama, due to alleged irregularities in the handling of public funds during his tenure. The investigations are being pursued by both the Comptroller General of the Republic and the Public Ministry.
Serena Vamvas, the current representative, confirmed the investigations and stated that three auditors are working extensively on the case. An extensive report detailing irregularities is expected soon. One suspicious item involves 1.5 million balboas from decentralization funds, allegedly mismanaged.
The National Decentralization Authority (AND) has filed over 50 complaints against various individuals, primarily targeting community councils from the Revolutionary Democratic Party (PRD) between 2020-2024, concerning the misuse of 320 million balboas for local projects. This relates to a controversial “parallel decentralization” system.
Other individuals under investigation include representatives from Pacora and Ernesto CĂłrdoba Campos. While some representatives involved lost re-election bids, others were successful.
Pérez Herrera previously claimed his actions were fully documented and supported by the Comptroller’s office.