President José Raúl Mulino described as 'political malice' the allegations related to a supposed criminal organization dedicated to extortion and blackmail. The head of the Executive emphasized that the one who extorts is a criminal, while adding that some do it publicly, while others resort to messages on social networks, publications in newspapers or morning interviews. Mulino urged people who consider themselves victims of extortion to file the corresponding complaints with the competent authorities and asked them not to be afraid. According to the president, this type of practice is not new in the country, as there are people who have been engaged in extortion for a long time. Mulino maintained that what is truly serious is not the attempt to disqualify him from the 2024 presidential elections, but the damage that was intended to be caused to the country's democratic structure, through 'political malice' in collusion with officials and civilians. However, the president considered that a positive aspect of the situation is that the facts have come to light. In response to the proposal to create a commission to investigate these allegations, the head of state considered that the initiative could 'have a happy ending'.
Panama's President Calls Extortion Allegations 'Political Malice'
Panama's President José Raúl Mulino dismissed extortion allegations as 'political malice,' urging victims to report to authorities. He claimed the attacks aim to damage the country's democracy and expressed hope for a commission to investigate the claims.
