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Panama’s former security minister, Jose Raul Mulino, has won the country’s presidential election.
Mulino aged 64, clinched the presidency after stepping in to replace Martinelli on the ballot when the former leader was barred from running due to a money laundering conviction.
Celebrating his win, Mulino addressed supporters with jubilation, declaring “Mission accomplished, damn it,” and expressing gratitude to Martinelli for his support.
He pledged to prioritise the interests of both the economy and the underprivileged in Panama, underscoring the need for national unity to boost development.
His victory comes amid an unconventional election campaign marked by Martinelli’s active involvement from Nicaragua’s embassy in Panama City, where he sought asylum. Despite accusations from opponents that Mulino was a mere puppet of Martinelli, many voters viewed him as a proxy for the former president.
With over 90 percent of the total votes counted, Mulino secured approximately 34 percent of the ballots, cementing his victory.
His closest rival, Ricardo Lombana, conceded defeat and congratulated Mulino on his success.
Mulino’s agenda for Panama includes ambitious plans for infrastructure development and a commitment to increasing the minimum wage. He has also suggested that his administration will prioritise stability and prosperity for the country.
