Panamanians went to the polls on Sunday for a general election, with former president Ricardo Martinelli’s dolphin, José Raúl Mulino, leading the official count with over 34 percent of the votes. More than three million voters were called to elect various positions, including a president, deputies to the National Assembly, mayors, and other officials for the period 2024-2029. Four presidential candidates were seen as having a chance of victory, including Mulino, Ricardo Lombana, Rómulo Roux, and former president Martín Torrijos.
The closure of polling stations and the start of the Unofficial Transmission of Results (TER) process took place in the afternoon. Turnout was expected to be around 80%, despite some irregularities reported such as attempts to take photographs of votes. The election process was described as within reasonableness and normality. Despite challenges such as a drought affecting the canal and environmental protests that slowed down Panama’s economy from growing at 7.3% in 2023 to an expected growth rate of 2.5% this year.
The next president of Panama will face a complex fiscal and economic situation with high levels of public debt and challenges in social security systems. The country continues to struggle with high levels of inequality, with two distinct realities coexisting within its borders. The outcome will be crucial in addressing these issues and setting the country on a path towards economic growth and social progress.
Panamanians showed enthusiasm and participation in the electoral process, with supporters expressing their views through spirited debates.
In conclusion, despite some challenges ahead such as addressing high levels of inequality and managing public debt effectively while maintaining social security systems stability Panamanians are ready for change by participating actively in this election cycle showing their commitment towards progress.