U.S. criticizes human rights abuses in Panama

[Judi Lynn]

Panamá, sábado 9 de abril de 2011
U.S. criticizes human rights abuses in Panama

New criticism of the way in which Ricardo Martinelli's government handles the issue of human rights in Panama, appeared in a new report published by the State Department of the United States (U.S.).

According to the report, the "problems " of human rights in Panama in 2010 included: the use of "excessive force" by police during protests; corruption in the legislative and executive branches, as well as security forces; marginalization of indigenous communities on issues that affect them; corruption, inefficiency and alleged political manipulation of the judicial system.

In addition, the report criticized the conditions in Panamanian prisons, the pressure against media and journalists, and discrimination against people with disabilities.

This is a report that the U.S. government publishes annually on the human rights situation worldwide. Many complaints about Panama are repeated year after year, however the report issued this year contains new accusations related to the suppression of protests, the marginalization of indigenous communities, and intimidation of journalists.

http://mensual.prensa.com/mensual/contenido/2011/04/09/hoy/english/news_6807.asp

[naaman fletcher]

1. should we believe it?

On the one hand, the US is saying it so it must be a lie, right? On the other hand, Martinelli is scum so it must be true, right?

What to think, what to think.... I think I will wait until Venezuela Analysis opines on it.