The World - News from June 18, 1989

Panama’s Defense Forces rejected a role in a three-way dialogue with opposition and government political parties on Panama’s election crisis. The proposal was made by a delegation from the Organization of American States, which was sent to Panama after the government voided the May 7 presidential election. International observers say the opposition won the vote by a 3-1 margin. The opposition seeks the resignation of Gen. Manuel A. Noriega, head of the Defense Forces and Panama’s de facto ruler. Noriega said last month that he would not negotiate with the opposition.