Belgium (Brussels Morning Newspaper), In the spirited ambiance of the Sheraton Hotel in Panama City, José Raúl Mulino, surrounded by a crowd of fervent supporters, proclaimed, “Mission accomplished, damn it!” just moments after receiving congratulatory remarks from the electoral court for his presidential win on Sunday. The scene was a vibrant tribute to what Mulino described as “perhaps the most important day of my life.” As the newly minted head of state and former security minister, he pledged to steer his government with honesty and efficiency, well aware of the enormous responsibilities that awaited him.
Mulino’s ascent to the presidency was marked by a significant margin, according to preliminary results. As the candidate of the conservative Salvar Panamá (Save Panama) party, he garnered around 34% of the vote, decisively outpacing Ricardo Lombano, who secured about 25% of the vote representing the center-right Movimiento Otro Camino party. Mulino’s victory speech was not just a celebration but also an outline of his forthcoming tenure, where he emphasized his commitment to promoting investment and bolstering the private sector. In a country grappling with unemployment, Mulino also vowed to ensure that every citizen would have access to clean drinking water, a promise that resonated deeply in light of the prevalent drought issues amplified during the campaign period.
The election cycle was heavily shadowed by the figure of Ricardo Martinelli, Mulino’s ally and the original presidential candidate, who faced a dramatic shift in his political fate. Martinelli, having sought refuge in the Nicaraguan embassy in February following a more than ten-year sentence for money laundering, remained a central figure throughout the campaign. Despite his physical absence, Martinelli was ever-present, campaigning for Mulino, his “crown prince,” through video messages from his place of asylum. The partnership between Mulino and Martinelli appeared seamless and unwavering right up until the electoral finish line.
Just two days before the election, Panama’s Supreme Court ruled in favor of Mulino’s candidacy, which had been under scrutiny for not adhering strictly to constitutional requirements regarding primary elections and running mates. The court justified its decision, citing the need for social peace and political pluralism. During the campaign, Mulino made a controversial promise to assist Martinelli should he ascend to the presidency, a statement that culminated in his bold declaration that “the political persecution is over!” on election night. He criticized the manipulation he perceived within the judiciary and expressed his discontent with what he described as an orchestrated persecution against Martinelli, which drew loud chants of “Freedom!” from the crowd whenever Martinelli’s name was mentioned. Amidst this complex backdrop, Mulino also sought to distance himself from the pervasive public opinion that he was merely a puppet, asserting his autonomy and leadership.
Furthermore, the financial landscape in Panama was starkly affected by a judicial ruling in November 2023, when the Supreme Court declared the contracts for Central America’s largest open-cast copper mine unconstitutional. Owned by Canadian company First Quantum Minerals, the mine’s closure was a significant blow to the business community and spurred widespread protests. Despite the contentious atmosphere, Mulino committed to continuing mining activities, a stance that sharply differentiated him from his electoral competitors.
Notably, Ricardo Lombano, the runner-up in the election, capitalized on a platform of anti-corruption and environmental protection. His campaign resonated particularly with younger voters and environmentalists, especially those who had actively protested against the mining operations. Lombano’s election result, outperforming poll predictions by around ten percent, demonstrated substantial public support. In his post-election speech, while exuding a victor’s confidence, he pledged that his coalition would vigilantly serve as the primary opposition force. He explicitly warned that should Mulino resort to authoritarian tactics or revive the controversial mining contracts, they would not hesitate to mobilize public protest once again.
The mining issue wasn’t just a line of division in political stances but also underscored the country’s broader economic and environmental challenges. Rómulo Roux, who placed fourth, had professional ties to the mining sector as a lawyer representing the interests of the closed copper mine. The deep entanglements of politics and business interests underscored the complexities of Panama’s economic landscape. In a similar vein, the issue of water, vital for both consumption and the operation of the Panama Canal, gained unprecedented attention during this election cycle. The drought reduced canal traffic, thereby decreasing revenue that was crucial not only for the nation but also for global trade operations.
Mulino’s broader vision for his presidency also touched on contentious social issues, including his promise to “close” the so-called Darien Gap. Known as a perilous route used by migrants traveling from South America to the USA, the Gap has been a flashpoint in discussions on national security and human rights. Mulino’s stern stance on deporting migrants who violate Panamanian laws by crossing the territory illegally signaled a tough approach to immigration.
In reflecting on the election’s record turnout, which saw around 77% of eligible voters casting their ballots, it’s clear that the stakes were incredibly high for Panamanians. The overwhelming participation highlighted the public’s acute awareness of the critical choice the country had to make. Economic downturns, social unrest, and political upheavals have painted a complex picture of a nation striving to reclaim its status as Central America’s flagship economy.
As the dust settles from the election, José Raúl Mulino finds himself at the forefront of a nation eager for transformation. His ascent to the presidency embodies the hopes of many Panamanians for a revival of their country’s fortunes. With a mandate to reshape Panama’s political and economic landscape, Mulino’s strategies will need to be as dynamic as the challenges he faces. The coming years will reveal whether he can cultivate a legacy of innovation and inclusivity in a time of global uncertainty.
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