José Raúl Mulino, a maritime lawyer and former security minister, has quickly risen to be the leading candidate to be Panama’s next president after former President Ricardo Martinelli was ruled ineligible due to a money laundering conviction. Despite lacking Martinelli’s charisma, Mulino has maintained a healthy lead in a crowded field of candidates ahead of the May 5 election. The remaining field includes former President Martín Torrijos and other candidates, with Mulino skipping all three presidential debates. Mulino’s campaign promises to create jobs and stop migration through Panama’s Darien jungle have resonated with an electorate eager for change but nostalgic for a booming economy.
However, Panama’s economy is not growing at the pace it did during Martinelli’s presidency, and experts anticipate a slowdown next year. The economic deceleration has been attributed to various factors, including a Supreme Court decision declaring unconstitutional legislation that granted a 20-year concession to a large copper mine. The decision came after protests related to water access concerns and nationalist fervor. Additionally, an extended drought has reduced traffic through the Panama Canal, a critical economic engine for the country.
There is a constitutional challenge to Mulino’s candidacy due to his selection process and lack of a running mate. The Supreme Court has yet to rule on the challenge. Mulino’s ascent to the top spot on the Achieving Goals party ticket coincided with Martinelli’s legal troubles, as Martinelli was convicted of money laundering and disqualified from the election. Martinelli, who is currently in the Nicaraguan embassy, has campaigned for Mulino from behind embassy walls, angering the Panamanian government. Mulino has embraced Martinelli’s image and the perception of a better country during his term, promising to assist Martinelli if elected.
Mulino’s campaign emphasizes creating employment, restoring faith in the system, and reinforcing democracy. His message of hope and work has resonated with supporters disillusioned with the political establishment. Despite controversies surrounding Mulino’s past actions as security minister, which include violent repression of protests and criticism for handling Martinelli’s corruption issues, supporters believe he can deliver on his promises. Mulino has vowed to close the Darien border and repatriate migrants while respecting human rights, a promise that echoes previous efforts supported by the U.S. government.
Critics and analysts raise concerns about Mulino’s unknowns, particularly regarding anti-corruption issues, social protest repression, and handling of Martinelli’s corruption. Mulino’s track record as security minister, which included expelling guerrilla groups but also coincided with an increase in immigration and illicit trade, raises questions about the feasibility of his promises. Despite these challenges, Mulino remains a frontrunner in the upcoming election, buoyed by his association with Martinelli and promises of economic growth and security. As Panama prepares to elect its next leader, the country faces a crucial decision that will determine its future trajectory.
