Jose Raul Mulino, a stand-in candidate for former President Ricardo Martinelli, has won Panama’s presidential election. After Martinelli was banned from running due to a corruption conviction, Mulino stepped in and secured over a third of the votes in the country. The new leader will inherit challenges such as government corruption, a severe drought affecting the Panama Canal, and the influx of US-bound migrants passing through Panama’s jungles.
Running on the ticket of the Achieving Goals and Alliance parties, the 64-year-old Mulino had led opinion polls leading up to the election. Despite facing challenges due to Panama’s laws on primary voting and selecting a running partner, a Supreme Court decision allowed him to stand in for Martinelli. Many believe that Martinelli will still wield influence behind the scenes, as Mulino takes office on July 1 for a single five-year term as both head of state and prime minister.
During his campaign, Mulino promised to boost the economy, which has seen a slowdown in growth and high levels of income inequality. The country also faces challenges with government corruption, high public debt, and declining foreign investment. The term of outgoing President Laurentino Cortizo was marred by allegations of corruption, leading to protests and controversy over a mining concession that critics believe endangers water sources.
More than 77 percent of eligible voters participated in the election, with Mulino’s closest competitor, Ricardo Lombana, conceding defeat along with former President Martin Torrijos and former chancellor Romulo Roux. Mulino expressed gratitude for the support, crediting the victory as a significant milestone in his life. Acknowledging Martinelli, he recognized the former president’s previous invitation to be his vice president, which ultimately led to his current position as the country’s leader.
Mulino’s victory marks a turning point for Panama, with hopes of addressing key issues such as migration, economic growth, and corruption. The country’s GDP growth is forecasted to slow down in the coming years, while unemployment remains a concern. The Panama Canal, a vital economic artery, has been affected by a severe drought, impacting trade transit. Mulino’s administration will be tasked with finding solutions to these challenges while also ensuring the safety and well-being of the thousands of migrants passing through Panama.
As the country looks towards a new era under Mulino’s leadership, there is optimism that he will be able to revitalize the economy and address pressing issues of corruption and migration. With strong connections to former President Martinelli, many believe that he will play a significant role in guiding the country’s direction from behind the scenes. As Panama navigates these complex challenges, the success of Mulino’s presidency will be crucial in determining the country’s future trajectory.
