Minister of Government Dinoska Montalvo dismissed claims that the transfer of Bernardo Meneses to Mega Joya prison was politically motivated, as his relatives and friends allege. Montalvo, a lawyer, explained that the Tinajitas Penitentiary Center is a transitional prison for individuals in pretrial detention. She emphasized that transferring inmates is a prerogative of correctional facilities based on their current needs. Montalvo also responded to allegations that Meneses was not notified of the transfer in advance and was not allowed to appeal the decision. Regarding supposed threats against Meneses from his political party, Montalvo stated that it is an internal matter for the party to handle. Meneses will remain in custody for six months while investigations into alleged corruption during his tenure at the Institute for the Training and Utilization of Human Resources (IFARHU) are conducted. Montalvo added that Tinajitas is suitable because it 'facilitates the mobility of detainees to their court hearings'.
Minister Denies Political Motives in Prison Transfer
Panama's Minister of Government refutes political reasons for inmate transfer, clarifying it's a standard procedure. She addresses notification concerns and alleged threats.
