Panama President Mulino vetoes retiree benefits and Assembly regulation bills

Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino has vetoed two legislative projects returned by the National Assembly, citing reasons of unconstitutionality and inconvenience.

The first project, Bill 226 of 2025, aimed to modify Law 6 of 1987 regarding benefits for retirees, pensioners, and senior citizens. While the President acknowledged the project’s legitimate social objective, he determined its provisions violated existing legislation and the Constitution.

The second project, Bill 594, sought to reform the Organic Regulations of the Internal Regime (RORI) of the National Assembly. The President issued a partial veto on this bill, objecting to nine specific articles. Key concerns included provisions that would allow deputies to be considered present during plenary sessions while participating in official activities within their electoral circuits without established verification mechanisms. The Executive also objected to articles empowering deputies to manage and oversee public works and investment guarantees within their districts, arguing such powers could undermine transparency and accountability.