Internal conflicts are raging within a political party in Panama. Party leader Nellys Herrera publicly criticized a prominent member named Omar, alluding to corruption in the Budget Committee. It is reported that three high-ranking members of Omar's party are concerned about new anti-mafia and asset forfeiture laws. The source of the money is unknown, but the alleged offers are colossal. She stated that the current leadership is a political cartel that will continue to drag the collective down. There are also calls for a serious audit of the Fund for Exchange of Services for the Achievement of Institutional Objectives (FISCOIL) to hold former directors accountable. Criminal lawyers argue that Panama does not need a new anti-mafia law; what is needed is for existing laws to be enforced and for judges to have the courage to rule. Meanwhile, elections are being prepared within Omar's party, and issues regarding pension payments and upcoming year-end festivities are being discussed. Panama's Minister of Labor and Labor Development, Jaqueline Muñoz, celebrated Journalist's Day by hosting a lavish breakfast for the press at a hotel in Punta Paitilla.
