Roxana Méndez resigns as head of Panama's Decentralization Authority

Roxana Méndez has resigned from her position as director of the National Decentralization Authority (AND) in Panama, effective October 15, 2026. While unofficial sources cited “personal reasons” for her departure, her tenure was defined by efforts to investigate the “parallel decentralization” scheme.

Méndez had previously revealed that the AND filed 353 formal complaints regarding irregularities in fund usage. Following an audit of 80 cases by the Comptroller General of the Republic, officials identified potential patrimonial losses exceeding $44 million.

During her 26-month leadership, Méndez faced legal and political challenges, including a criminal complaint for alleged abuse of authority related to the suspension of the Social Interest Development Program (PDIS). She was originally appointed by President José Raúl Mulino in 2024.