In an act that threatens university autonomy, a National Police officer, dressed in civilian clothes, entered the Harmodio Arias Madrid Campus of the University of Panama on February 6 without the proper authorization from the rector, as required by current legislation. According to an official statement from the university itself, the officer attempted to inquire about students accused of crimes against public order officials following the protests of January 31.
"This action, cloaked under the pretext of an investigation, represents a clear attempt at intimidation and harassment against the university community, which has historically been a bastion of freedom of thought and the struggle for citizens' rights," stated the University of Panama.
The rector of the institution, Eduardo Flores Castro, has firmly condemned this police action, which could constitute a flagrant violation of university autonomy, a principle enshrined in the National Constitution to protect the First House of Studies in the country from any arbitrary interference by the State.
In light of this situation, the university has announced that it will evaluate the possibility of taking legal action against the National Police to ensure respect for its autonomy and prevent the repetition of similar events in the future.
