According to lawyer Rolando Reyna, the statement made by lawyer Karisma Karamiñes about the former director of La Prensa, Annette Planells, could be used as a “criminis noticia” to initiate a formal investigation to clarify the events that occurred. The lack of legal action on this issue is affecting not only those involved, who continue to remain silent to this day, but also the country's international image.
He mentioned that those accused in the supposed electoral conspiracy against President José Raúl Mulino should be the most interested in clarifying the situation, as their silence generates more doubts and distrust.
The jurist requested the prosecutor to act ex officio to clarify the citizens' questions before the situation escalates, as the allegations made by his colleague represent the commission of several serious crimes.
The celebration of an award, which to this day remains anchored in Planells' profile on X (formerly Twitter) as a sign of pride, has been her greatest calamity in recent days; she has gone from being an “anti-corruption champion” to an “extortionist” in the eyes of the country's authorities. This rectification has been well-received by some local political personalities, among whom stands out former deputy Zulay Rodríguez, who congratulated the U.S. ambassador Kevin Marino Cabrera for “putting her in her place,” considering that the recognition is a dishonor to the U.S.
Rodríguez applauded Marino Cabrera for exposing the undemocratic practices used by Planells to pursue her political enemies through the digital media Foco and La Prensa.
For the former deputy, revoking the award from Planells is not enough to set a precedent that prevents “unscrupulous” individuals from using their influence as a political weapon; therefore, she suggests that her visa be revoked, which would also prohibit her from entering the country.
Former President Ricardo Martinelli and former deputy Katleen Levy have also coincided with the statements of the U.S. ambassador. The latter, after lawyer Karamiñes exposed Planells' actions, accused her of allegedly demanding $10,000 a month from her to stop “attacking” her through Foco.
Following the scandal, the U.S. ambassador to Panama stated that under President Donald Trump's mandate, empty recognitions will not be given; on the contrary, they will focus on ensuring true accountability.
“She never deserved this award, we will work to take it away from her,” the diplomat concluded.
