'The numbers don't add up': Comptroller orders forensic audit of Chilibre Market

Panama's Comptroller General, Anel Flores, has launched a forensic audit into the Chilibre Peripheral Market after discovering significant discrepancies in its construction costs. Flores announced the audit following a personal inspection of the market, where he expressed shock at the project's expenditure.

"I just visited the Chilibre Peripheral Market. The numbers don't add up: more than B/.11,500 per square meter for a construction that looks basic and is far from justifying that cost," Flores stated. He emphasized that every Panamanian dollar would be scrutinized, signaling a commitment to fiscal responsibility.

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I just visited the Chilibre Peripheral Market. The numbers don't add up: more than B/.11,500 per square meter for a construction that looks basic and is far from justifying that cost.

The audit will examine various aspects of the project's execution, including administrative processes, documentation, and financial controls. The goal is to determine if the reported costs align with the infrastructure's characteristics and if public funds were managed according to regulations. The project was initially commissioned in September 2022 under former Mayor José Luis Fábrega, with an estimated cost of $11.998 million and a 13-month completion timeline.

However, the project has experienced significant delays. Originally slated for completion by the end of 2024, it remains under construction. The market was designed to feature 50 sales modules for fruits and vegetables, along with various other retail and food service spaces, aiming to promote traditional Panamanian cuisine. The 2025 budget allocated by Mayor Mayer Mizrachi includes funds for the market's cleaning, disinfection, pest control, and waste management.

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Every Panamanian dollar will be scrutinized.