Amid renewed tensions between the Executive branch and opposition sectors, the controversy intensified after the president publicly confirmed he had not invited representatives from those groups to the meeting held at the Palacio de las Garzas (the seat of the Executive), arguing that “nothing good comes” from their participation.

  The meeting brought together the Legislative leadership and the caucus heads of the Realizando Metas, Democratic Revolutionary, Panamenista, Democratic Change, and Alianza parties.     According to the official statement, the purpose was to coordinate an agenda aimed at advancing priority projects for the country.

  In the meeting, Mulino presented progress on his government program, including initiatives for job creation through infrastructure works, the “Panama pa’ Ti” social plan, projects to expand potable water coverage with new treatment plants, and measures to address the impact of the El Nino phenomenon on agricultural production.

  The president’s statements drew an immediate response from independent lawmakers, who questioned the exclusion and defended the oversight role that, in their view, the National Assembly is meant to exercise.

  Deputy Janine Prado, of the “Vamos” caucus, described the president’s words as disrespectful and inconsistent. She maintained that her group has supported initiatives it deems beneficial for the country while remaining critical of those it considers contrary to the public interest.

  Meanwhile, Deputy Grace Hernandez, of the “Seguimos” caucus, downplayed the fact that she was not invited, though she insisted on the need to build broad and inclusive consensus.

  The exclusion of both caucuses comes just days after the new legislature was sworn in—a process marked by intense negotiations among the various political forces regarding the composition of the parliamentary leadership.

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