Discussion Surrounds the Future of Panama City’s Carnival After Budget Cuts

In a turn of events following the Panama Tourism Authority’s (ATP) announcement to suspend the Carnival of Panama City due to budget constraints, both the private sector and the city’s mayor have expressed their willingness to keep the festivities alive.

ATP’s Concerns Over Responsibility

This week, ATP Director Gloria De León declared that hosting the carnival under the current financial circumstances “would not be the most responsible” decision. She emphasized that the festival requires an investment exceeding $3 million, a significant expenditure in light of the government’s reassessment of budget priorities.

Mayor Mizrachi’s Stance

Mayor Mayer Mizrachi acknowledged the difficulty of the executive decision to cancel the event, stating it was “necessary.” He underscored his commitment to the prudent use of public funds while simultaneously expressing hope for a collaborative effort to persist with the event, ideally with private sector support. “The question is whether, in 45 days, the private sector can coordinate among themselves to salvage an activity, even if it’s modest, in the capital city,” Mizrachi reflected.

Private Sector Support

Gabriel Diez, President of the National Council of Private Enterprise (CoNEP), echoed the mayor’s sentiments, asserting that if the municipality could orchestrate the carnival with the backing of private entities—without using public funds—then efforts should be made to proceed. He pointed to the recent Christmas parade as an example, noting it was successfully financed through private contributions while receiving logistical support from the mayor’s office.

Diez acknowledged the time-sensitive nature of organizing such an event, indicating that discussions surrounding costs, regulations, and logistics are crucial at this stage. “It can be done, but we are late. This could have been addressed much earlier,” he stated.

He emphasized that it is imperative for events like Carnaval to shift away from reliance on state funding, suggesting that each community should have its own carnival committee supported by local governments while the central government focuses on ensuring public safety.

A Call for Cultural Independence

Both Mizrachi and Diez championed the idea that the cultural celebrations in Panama should not rely heavily on the state. Mizrachi noted how the carnivals in Las Tablas are predominantly funded by private enterprises and sponsorships, advocating for a similar approach in the capital.

Reflecting on the previous year’s carnival, which had a total investment of $1.6 million and generated an impressive economic return of over $18 million during its four-day duration, it becomes clear that the festival is not only a cultural staple but also a significant contributor to the local economy.

Conclusion

As discussions continue, the fate of the Panama City carnival remains uncertain. Nevertheless, the willingness of both private organizations and local government officials to collaborate may pave the way for a reimagined version of this cherished event—one that aligns with the current fiscal climate while celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Panamá.