Politics Events Country 2025-12-11T15:12:31+00:00

Panama Political Scandal: Corruption in ITSE and Imelcf

A major political scandal is unfolding in Panama, involving key state institutions. Reports suggest efforts to increase funding for the ITSE, while the selection of a new director for the Imelcf is mired in fraud allegations, raising doubts about the integrity of future forensic work.


A scandal is brewing in Panama surrounding the Institute of Forensic Sciences (ITSE) and the Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences (Imelcf). It has been reported that Felipe, a high-ranking official, inquired with the leadership of the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF) about the funding for the ITSE. In response, he allegedly told them that not only would the funding not be cut, but they also planned to increase it. Meanwhile, the selection of a new director for the Imelcf is accompanied by accusations of fraud. Businessmen fear that if manipulation is possible in appointments, then expert opinions could also be falsified. Internal conflicts have also affected the Conusi and Conato unions, which, on the issue of the minimum wage, have presented separate proposals instead of acting jointly. The legal battle surrounding the arrest of Chinese citizen Brands also continues, with his lawyers confident in the illegality of the detention. The general atmosphere in these key government institutions is described as "smelling of rottenness," raising serious questions about transparency and leadership.