'Stop Being Lenient With Criminals': Mulino Demands Institutional Unity -

(MENAFN- Newsroom Panama) The president questioned recent rulings and warned that“lenient” actions contradict the security and anti-corruption efforts promoted by the Executive branch. During the inauguration of the Guararé Health Center this Friday, President José Raúl Mulino again publicly pressured the other branches of government to act more severely against organized crime. His message was directed to the Judicial Branch and the National Assembly, whom he asked for stronger laws, coherent decisions and less leniency towards crimes that, he said, threaten the stability of the country. Mulino stated that certain court rulings“do not align” with his administration's work plan. He referred, without mentioning names, to a ruling that granted house arrest to an alleged gang leader linked to drug trafficking.

“That's not justice,” he claimed, asserting that decisions of this kind undermine the government's security efforts. The president called the action“utter negligence” and warned that such institutional signals send the wrong message at a time when the country is confronting complex criminal structures.“And I don't want to think about other things,” he said, alluding to possible motivations behind the ruling. Throughout his speech, Mulino highlighted the actions that, according to him, the Executive authorities are carrying out: significant seizures, operations against gangs, and reports of corruption in the handling of public funds. However, he insisted that these measures lose strength when there is no firm support from other state bodies. “We are doing our part,” he stated.“I hope that justice will not only be independent, but effective.

And that just as those who stole the money are prosecuted, the traffickers, rapists, and degenerates who walk our streets will also face punishment. ”The president went further and asked to“stop being lenient with the most aberrant criminals,” especially those linked to drug trafficking. Mulino also reiterated his confidence that the National Assembly can become a key player in promoting legal reforms that support the fight against organized crime. Before concluding, he assured that his administration will continue with multi-sectoral works and projects. He also reaffirmed his intention to fulfill outstanding commitments, including those inherited from previous governments, because, he said, institutional compliance strengthens credibility and boosts investment in the country.

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