Political crisis in Venezuela and controversial amnesty shape the agenda in Panama.

The political and economic situation in Venezuela and Panama has captured the attention of the media and analysts over the past week, revealing the complexity of the challenges facing both nations. In Venezuela, the recent presidential elections have been the subject of intense debate, especially after the National Electoral Council proclaimed Nicolás Maduro as the winner, despite allegations of fraud and a lack of transparency in the electoral process. Political scientist and lawyer Daniel Zovatto, who was invited to discuss this issue on the program Radar, explained that the elections were not held within a democratic framework, but rather in a context of severe restrictions under an authoritarian regime. Zovatto warned about the possibility that Maduro could follow a repressive line similar to that of Nicaragua, which could lead to the arrest of opposition leaders like María Corina Machado and Edmundo González Urrutia. This escalation in repression could trigger a new wave of migration, adding to the millions who have already left the country. With more than eight million Venezuelans abroad, Zovatto estimated that another three to four million could follow suit if current political tensions are not resolved. The crisis would not only affect Venezuela but would also have significant repercussions in neighboring countries like Colombia and Brazil, as well as in Panama, which could be overwhelmed by an increase in incoming migrants. Meanwhile, in Panama, the focus has been on a controversial draft amnesty law promoted by Deputy Luis Eduardo Camacho. Former Attorney General Ana Matilde Gómez has severely criticized this proposal, calling it a "legal monstrosity" and noting that it lacks the necessary legislative technique. Gómez argues that the project attempts to circumvent the Penal Code by proposing a pardon that does not consider penalties, which is legally incompatible with current regulations. Gómez has emphasized that, if approved, this law could open the door to impunity and political agreements that would exonerate those involved in corruption cases, such as the Odebrecht scandal. The lawyer highlighted that current regulations limit pardons to political crimes, and that the current draft law poses a serious conflict of interest by empowering the president as a judge in these matters. On the other hand, economist Luis Morán has called for caution in managing public spending. Following recent announcements by the Minister of Economy and Finance, Felipe Chapman, regarding the need to contain spending, Morán warned that Panama faces a high percentage of public employment compared to other countries in the region. However, he emphasized that it is not about eliminating positions, but rather prioritizing those that are most necessary for public administration. Economist Ana Patiño also expressed caution regarding the cuts proposed by the government, especially in critical sectors like health and education. The expert argued that reducing staffing in these areas could be a serious mistake, given the context of high informality and unemployment in the country. Concerns about the situation in Venezuela and its repercussions in Panama add to a climate of internal uncertainty, where economic management and political decisions will be under the scrutiny of the population. Recent events have highlighted the interconnection between the Venezuelan crisis and the challenges facing Panama, suggesting that regional stability depends on a coordinated and effective response to these issues. Thus, the week has been marked by political tension in Venezuela and controversy over the draft amnesty law in Panama, issues that underscore the complexity of the current landscape in both countries and the need for open and constructive dialogue to find sustainable solutions that benefit their respective populations. At a time when distrust and polarization seem to dominate, it is vital for the leaders of both nations to act with responsibility and commitment toward a more promising future.