BRIEFS. national

Consumer group criticizes toll hike

The Instituto Panameño de Defensa del Consumidor y el Usuario is opposed to a special fee for drivers who will heading into the interior for Carnaval.

President Giovanny Fletcher called on all drivers to keep their tickets after paying the toll on the Arraiján-La Chorrera highway. He said they may be eligible for a rebate since the measure was improperly applied by the Ministerio de Obras Públicas (MOP).

Fletcher said that the law states that the government has to consult with citizens before engaging in acts of public administration that affect their rights and interests.

During Carnaval, the government will be collecting tolls from vehicles heading in both directions on the highway.