The National Network for the Support of Childhood and Adolescence of Panama (REDNANIAP) yesterday expressed its concern over the ongoing investigations by the Public Prosecutor's Office, which relate to possible crimes against minors under institutional protection and care.
In a press release, the group stated that due to the seriousness of the facts, it cannot remain on the sidelines. “Our reason for being is to actively contribute to the comprehensive protection of children and adolescents, especially those in situations of greater vulnerability and under the responsibility of the State,” the network states in its document.
In this context, REDNANIAP requests administrative preventive measures to ensure transparency in the process, avoid possible interference, and strengthen public trust. It also calls for the evaluation and removal from office of the director of the National Secretariat for Childhood, Adolescence, and Family (SENNIAF), as well as the director of the Protection Department of that institution, for the duration of the investigations.
The organization clarifies that these measures are requested without prejudging responsibilities and in strict respect for due process and the presumption of innocence, as institutional safeguards against facts of extreme gravity involving populations specially protected by the legal system.
Mides presented a report in the Council of Ministers
On Tuesday, the Minister of Social Development, Beatriz Carles, presented a detailed report on the immediate actions that will be implemented following the scandal over irregularities at the Comprehensive Care Center (CAI) in Tocumen.
Among the decisions are a specialized technical inspection of the CAI in Tocumen (on February 9 and 10) and an administrative review of the SENNIAF offices (management, supervision, and decision-making processes linked to the center will be evaluated).
The results will be presented to the board of directors as part of institutional follow-up.
Regarding the adults with disabilities and sick individuals who remain in the center, the board approved specific actions to ensure their care.
Carles emphasized that follow-up will be permanent, and short-term, medium-term, and long-term measures will be applied.
It is worth noting that on the same day, Deputy Alexandra Brenes attempted to have the National Assembly summon Carles, but she did not obtain the necessary votes.
