On Sunday, Panamanians took to the polls to elect various officials for the period 2024-2029. The official count showed that José Raúl Mulino, the dolphin of former president Ricardo Martinelli, led the way with over 34 percent of the votes. More than three million voters participated in the election process, which included choosing a president, deputies to the National Assembly, mayors and other officials.
Four candidates were seen as having a chance of victory, including Mulino, Ricardo Lombana, Rómulo Roux and former president Martín Torrijos. Despite some irregularities reported during the election process such as attempts to take photographs of votes, turnout was expected to be around 80%. Overall, the election process was described as within reasonableness and normality.
Panama’s economy is expected to slow down this year from its growth rate of 7.3% in 2023 due to various factors such as a drought affecting the canal and environmental protests. The next president will face a complex fiscal and economic situation with high levels of public debt and challenges in the social security system. Panama continues to struggle with high levels of inequality, with two distinct realities coexisting within its borders.
The electoral outcome will be crucial in addressing these issues and setting the country on a path towards economic growth and social progress. Despite these challenges ahead, Panamanians showed enthusiasm and participation in the electoral process, with supporters of various parties expressing their views and engaging in spirited debates.
In conclusion, Panama held general elections on Sunday with José Raúl Mulino leading the official count. Four presidential candidates were seen as having a chance of victory while there were some irregularities reported during the election process. The country’s economy is expected to slow down this year due to various factors such as a drought affecting the canal and environmental protests. The next president will face complex fiscal and economic challenges while Panama continues to struggle with high levels of inequality. Despite these challenges ahead
