Still Structurally Sound

Panama's President Ricardo Martinelli has denied claims that he will seek re-election in 2014, although he has spoken in favour of constitutional amendments to the length of presidential tenure. Such comments appear an attempt to stave off growing criticism towards alleged intervention in constitutional and judicial affairs, as does the government's plan to carry out an annual plebiscite, which according to Martinelli will be 'binding' in their decisions. While such moves serve to highlight the government's concern over faltering popularity levels, we doubt they will do much to improve the electorate's opinion of the president.

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