Panama is gearing up for a presidential election this Sunday, but the most prominent player in the race, Ricardo Martinelli, is not on the ballot. Martinelli, a former president of the country, was disqualified due to a money laundering conviction. However, from inside the Nicaraguan Embassy in Panama City, where he was granted asylum, Martinelli has been campaigning for José Raúl Mulino, his former running mate who took his place on the ballot.
Mulino, who has led the polls in a field of eight candidates, promises to bring Panama back to the economic growth it experienced under Martinelli’s presidency. The election is taking place amidst political chaos and widespread frustration with the current government, following major protests last year against a controversial copper-mining contract.
The candidates are vying for a five-year term in a single-round vote, with Mulino holding a significant lead over his rivals. Other notable candidates include Martín Torrijos, Rómulo Roux, and Ricardo Lombana. The election comes at a crucial time for Panama, as the country’s economic growth has slowed down and issues such as migration, water scarcity, and pension system deficits need to be addressed.
Despite Martinelli’s disqualification, Mulino’s campaign continues to use his image and legacy as a key selling point. The election has divided voters, with some supporting Mulino due to Martinelli’s legacy, while others criticize the alliance between the two candidates and opt for alternative candidates like Lombana.
As Panama prepares to elect its next president, the country faces a myriad of challenges that the new leader will have to tackle. From economic issues to social and environmental concerns, the outcome of the election will have a significant impact on the future of Panama.
