The situation ultimately did not occur, thanks to the favorable ruling of the Supreme Court of Justice, which validated his participation in the presidential elections.
Panama’s Electoral Tribunal Expresses its Position Following Statements by President Mulino
The Electoral Tribunal reaffirmed its commitment to democratic order and reiterated that threats have no place in a State governed by the rule of law, highlighting the independence and transparency that characterize the electoral body.
The President of the Republic, José Raúl Mulino, reacted today through his social networks to the criticism received for his recent statements in Costa Rica.
During his official visit to Costa Rica, the Panamanian president reaffirmed his commitment to electoral transparency and the guarantee that the popular will of the people will always be respected in the Panamanian elections.
Furthermore, he recalled that during his conversations with various political figures, he warned them that the country could be plunged into a crisis if the constitutionality of his candidacy were declared illegal, thus affecting the popular will of the Panamanian people.
This approach has been recognized by various international organizations that endorse the integrity of the Panamanian electoral system.
The TE explained that the presidential candidacy of the Realizando Metas party was challenged, which was resolved through an Agreement in March 2024, two months before the general elections.
The Court stressed that all decisions made during the electoral process were based on strict compliance with the Constitution and the laws of the country.
The Electoral Tribunal has been responsible for organizing free, transparent, and democratic elections since its reorganization in 1990, always respecting the popular will as expressed at the ballot box.
In his message, Mulino stated: “I have given this reaction a lot of thought. I had to defend it against an entire, powerful, and entrenched system that still doesn’t rest.”
