The U.S. Ambassador to Panama, Kevin Marino Cabrera, has called former La Prensa director Annette Planells an 'extortionist'. In a post on his X account, Cabrera stated that Planells was 'exposed through blackmail and electoral interference', referring to her alleged involvement in attempts to sabotage the candidacy of President José Raúl Mulino. The diplomat harshly criticized the U.S. Department of State under the Joe Biden administration for awarding Planells the 'Anti-Corruption Champion' title in December 2023. According to Cabrera, that honor became a disgrace and completely distorted the purpose of the award. 'She never deserved an award; we will work to have it revoked,' Cabrera emphasized, making it clear that the new U.S. diplomatic line is focused on 'real collaboration, strong policies, and true accountability,' without empty awards that ultimately undermine the fight against corruption. The ambassador's message adds to growing international concern about the integrity of anti-corruption awards, while Panama closely observes how U.S. foreign policy is beginning to mark clear differences with previous administrations.
