The Ministry of Government of Panama has presented a bill aimed at prohibiting the wearing of masks and other items that conceal identity during public demonstrations. The bill's objective is to identify individuals responsible for vandalism and prevent masked groups from distorting social movements. Authorized by Cabinet Resolution No. 7 of February 24, 2026, the initiative proposes adding Article 169-A to the Panama Penal Code. Minister Dinoska Montalvo stated that historically, peaceful marchers often face legal proceedings for violent acts committed by third-party infiltrators who use hoods or masks to evade justice. The new law aims to protect citizens who protest in good faith from being attacked or used by external agitators.
