Panama Roundup: Olympic wins, repatriations, Maduro rejects 'asylum'

Airport takeovers

The government of Panama has announced that three international airports will be handed over to a single company for administration under a concession. President Mulino stated that the airports have deteriorated and that the selected company must have experience in airport management and sufficient liquidity. According to BN Americas, interested parties will be given access to a database to obtain all the information they require on the airports to participate in the selection process.

Maduro rejects 'asylum'

Venezuelan President Maduro rejects Panama's offer of safe passage to a third country for a political transition. The Print reports that Panama's President offered safe passage to facilitate Maduro's departure, but Maduro accused Panama of being influenced by the United States. Venezuela's electoral results remain disputed, and several Latin American countries have cut diplomatic ties with Venezuela.

Police give out trauma kits

Panama City Police are equipping schools with mobile rescue units for emergency injuries. The kit's monitor offers instructions for treating various injuries, enabling almost anyone to provide care. “This system is designed to assist the untrained. With that being said, it is colour-coded for every item that is within it. It also comes with an iPad monitor so that you can just follow the prompts,” Panama City Police Captain Billy Carstarphen said as reported by My Pan Handle.

Olympic wins

Panama celebrated its first Olympic medal, won by a woman, as boxer Atheyna Bylon took home the silver in Paris in 2024. The entire country cheered her on as she fought in the heavyweight final. Bylon, a police officer, comes from a humble background and has quickly risen in the world of boxing. Her historic achievement is a significant milestone for Panamanian boxing, reports The Tico Times.

US urged to expedite resources for repatriating migrants

Panama's President has asked the US to expedite aid for repatriating migrants crossing through the dangerous Darien Gap. The US had agreed to fund the repatriation of migrants entering Panama without authorisation. This came after Panama implemented measures to reduce irregular migrant crossings through the Darien. According to Mint, the President expressed concern about a new wave of Venezuelan migrants and announced plans to repatriate Venezuelan migrants to Colombia. The US Embassy did not immediately respond to the request for comment.