Panama City was abuzz with anticipation as voters eagerly awaited the results of the presidential election on Sunday. The election, overshadowed by the drama surrounding former President Ricardo Martinelli, saw voters lining up outside polling stations under the sweltering sun.
The race was marked by political fragmentation and social discontent, with outgoing President Laurentino Cortizo facing criticism for his handling of the country’s issues. The Supreme Court’s ruling allowing José Raúl Mulino to run added a new twist to the already complex election.
Mulino, who replaced Martinelli as the candidate for the Achieving Goals party, campaigned on promises of economic prosperity and a crackdown on migration through the dangerous Darien Gap. Despite Mulino’s connection to Martinelli, some voters, like Uber driver Emanuel Romero, sought change with a new leader like Ricardo Lombana.
The election results showed Mulino leading with 35% of the vote, followed by former President Martín Torrijos at 15%. Rómulo Roux and Lombana trailed behind with 14% and 12% respectively. The outcome of the election will have a significant impact on Panama’s future, as the new president will inherit a struggling economy and deep-seated corruption issues.
As Panama’s next leader prepares to take office, they will face challenges on multiple fronts, including economic recovery, environmental concerns, and social unrest. The country’s future hangs in the balance as voters wait to see who will lead them into a new era of governance.