Panama’s Supreme Court ruled that Jose Raul Mulino, the frontrunner in the country’s presidential election, is eligible to run just two days before the vote. Mulino took over as the candidate for the right-wing Realizando Metas party after former President Ricardo Martinelli was barred from standing due to a money-laundering conviction. The court’s decision ends uncertainty surrounding Mulino’s candidacy, which had been challenged due to his lack of participation in a party primary and selection of a running mate.
The Supreme Court’s ruling was decisive, with a vote of 8 to 1 in favor of Mulino’s eligibility. The court cited the rights of Panamanians to elect and be elected, as well as principles of democracy, institutionality, and political pluralism. While Mulino may not have Martinelli’s charisma, he has maintained similar policies and garnered over 30 percent support in recent polls. Martinelli, who is currently in Nicaragua under political asylum, praised the decision and emphasized the importance of truth, law, and justice prevailing.
Mulino’s campaign has focused on restoring the economic prosperity of Martinelli’s presidency and addressing migration through the Darien Gap jungle. Corruption has been a major issue in the election, with all candidates vowing to tackle the problem. Seven of the candidates are conservative, with economist Maribel Gordon representing the left as a long-shot contender. Former President Martin Torrijos is trailing behind Mulino in the polls with only 5 percent of the vote.
Mulino, a former foreign minister, justice minister, and security minister under Martinelli, faced criticism for a violent crackdown on Indigenous workers in 2010. The clashes resulted in two deaths and more than 100 injuries. Despite this controversy, Mulino has maintained his lead in the polls and continues to focus on his promises to address economic issues and migration. The election is seen as a crucial moment for Panama as the country grapples with challenges related to corruption and political uncertainty.
