José Raúl Mulino emerges as surprise winner in Panama’s presidential election with last-minute candidacy

José Raúl Mulino Emerges as Winner in Panama’s Presidential Election

In a surprising turn of events, José Raúl Mulino, the stand-in for former President Ricardo Martinelli, has unofficially won Panama’s presidential election. With nearly 35% of the votes and a nine-point lead over his nearest competitor, Mulino is set to take the reins of the Central American nation.

Mulino, a 64-year-old former security minister, stepped in as the candidate after Martinelli was banned from running due to a 10-year prison sentence for money laundering. Despite being a less charismatic politician, Mulino rode on Martinelli’s popularity and the economic prosperity seen during the former leader’s tenure.

Addressing a crowd of supporters, Mulino expressed his gratitude and acknowledged the weight of the responsibility that now falls on his shoulders. He also made a nod to Martinelli, thanking him for the opportunity to lead the nation.

However, Mulino’s victory comes at a challenging time for Panama, with pressing issues such as a slowed economy, historic levels of migration, a drought affecting the Panama Canal, and the aftermath of mass anti-mining protests. The new president-elect will have to navigate these challenges while also addressing the simmering discontent among many Panamanians.

With a historic voter turnout of over 77%, the election underscored the importance of the outcome for the country. As Mulino prepares to take office, the focus will now shift to how he plans to tackle the formidable obstacles ahead and whether he will follow in Martinelli’s footsteps or chart his own path.