Bettzy Mendizabal

Bettzy Mendizabal was a young Panamanian activist who, alongside her boyfriend Jorge Falconett, disappeared in 1977 during a period of heightened political repression under a military dictatorship. At just 19 years old, Bettzy was known for her vocal opposition to the regime and her commitment to fighting for democracy and human rights, making her a target for military intelligence. Her disappearance, alongside that of Rita Wald, has become emblematic of the struggle against authoritarianism in Panama.