1. President Mulino Attends Nobel Ceremony in Oslo

On December 9, President José Raúl Mulino was in Oslo, Norway, attending the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. He publicly supported Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, who was recognized internationally for her democratic activism. Mulino also met with King Harald V, reinforcing Panama’s diplomatic ties with Europe.

Observers noted that Mulino’s presence highlighted Panama’s role in supporting democratic movements abroad. Critics at home argued that the president should focus more on domestic issues, including rising crime and economic inequality. Analysts stressed that Panama’s foreign policy is increasingly tied to regional democratic advocacy.

2. Prison Costs Spark Debate

Panama’s Ministry of Government revealed that the state spends approximately $36 per day per prisoner, with nearly 24,000 people currently incarcerated. The announcement came as tenders worth $243 million were opened to supply food to prisons in Panama and Colón. The figures reignited debate about prison overcrowding and resource allocation.

Civil society groups argued that funds should be redirected toward rehabilitation and reintegration programs. Critics warned that without reforms, Panama’s prison system risks becoming unsustainable. Analysts emphasized that prison costs reflect broader challenges in justice and social policy.

3. U.S.–Panama Joint Embassy Security Exercise

On December 9, U.S. Navy SEALs and Panamanian special forces carried out a crisis response exercise at the U.S. Embassy in Panama City. The drill simulated a complex hostage scenario, validating joint readiness and coordination. Officials said the exercise demonstrated the value of forward-deployed U.S. forces in Central America.

Panamanian authorities emphasized that such cooperation strengthens national security against evolving threats. Critics, however, raised concerns about sovereignty and the militarization of civilian spaces. Analysts noted that the exercise underscores Panama’s strategic importance in regional defense.

4. Local Press Highlights Economic Concerns

Panama’s newspapers on December 9 focused heavily on economic challenges, including inflation and rising food prices. Editorials in La Estrella de Panamá and La Prensa warned that households are struggling to cope with higher living costs. Business leaders urged the government to accelerate investment in infrastructure and trade facilitation.

Residents expressed frustration at stagnant wages and limited job opportunities. Civil society groups called for stronger social safety nets to protect vulnerable populations. Analysts stressed that economic pressures could fuel political unrest if not addressed.

5. Immigration Pressures at Northern Border

Reports on December 9 highlighted growing immigration pressures at Panama’s northern border with Costa Rica. Migrants from Nicaragua and Honduras were arriving in larger numbers, straining shelters in Chiriquí province. NGOs warned of deteriorating humanitarian conditions and increased risks of exploitation.

Authorities pledged to expand humanitarian aid and strengthen border patrols. Critics argued that Panama cannot manage the crisis alone and urged regional cooperation. Analysts warned that without coordinated action, tensions between migrants and host communities could escalate.

6. Violence Against Tourists in Colón

Local media reported incidents of violence against tourists near Colón’s cruise port. Several foreign visitors were robbed, prompting embassies to issue advisories. Police increased patrols, but residents criticized the government for failing to address rising insecurity.

Tourism operators expressed concern that repeated incidents could damage Colón’s reputation as a safe destination. Industry leaders called for stronger collaboration between police and private businesses to protect visitors. Analysts noted that violence against tourists undermines Panama’s broader efforts to attract international visitors.

7. Debate Over Prison Food Contracts

The $243 million prison food tenders sparked controversy in Panama’s legislature. Lawmakers questioned whether the contracts would benefit private suppliers more than inmates. The Ministry of Government defended the tenders, citing the need to ensure consistent food supplies.

Civil society groups demanded transparency and oversight to prevent corruption. Critics argued that prison food contracts reflect deeper inefficiencies in public procurement. Analysts stressed that the debate highlights Panama’s struggle to balance fiscal responsibility with human rights.

8. Panama’s Role in Regional Diplomacy

Coverage on December 9 emphasized Panama’s growing role in regional diplomacy. Mulino’s support for Venezuela’s opposition leader was seen as part of a broader strategy to align Panama with democratic movements. Officials stressed that Panama’s geographic position makes it a natural hub for negotiations.

Civil society groups urged the government to prioritize humanitarian concerns, especially regarding migrants from Venezuela and Central America. Expats in Panama expressed hope that diplomatic stability would reduce tensions and improve safety for foreign residents.

9. Security Concerns for Expats in Panama City

Reports on December 9 highlighted rising security concerns for expats in Panama City. Incidents of theft and harassment were reported in Casco Viejo and El Cangrejo. Police pledged to increase patrols, but residents criticized the government for failing to address crime.

Expats expressed frustration at the lack of consistent safety measures. Tourism operators warned that insecurity could deter investment and long-term residency. Analysts noted that violence against expats undermines Panama’s efforts to attract foreign professionals.

10. Public Reaction to Mulino’s Oslo Visit

Panamanians reacted strongly to President Mulino’s trip to Oslo. Supporters praised his commitment to democracy and international recognition. Critics argued that the president should focus on domestic issues, including crime and economic inequality.

Social media debates reflected broader divisions in Panamanian society. Analysts stressed that Mulino’s foreign policy decisions will shape Panama’s international reputation but could also fuel domestic controversy.