Former Panamanian ruler Ricardo Martinelli, who was sentenced to more than 10 years in prison for money laundering, was visited by his successor and substitute as presidential candidate, José Raúl Mulino, at the Nicaraguan Embassy where Martinelli has taken refuge since February to avoid arrest.
Mulino, who was designated as a last-minute replacement for Martinelli by the Electoral Tribunal, met with the former president at the embassy. Despite not being allowed to participate in the campaign due to his disqualification, Martinelli has been actively supporting Mulino from the embassy, which has sparked criticism and diplomatic tension between Panama and Nicaragua.
On election day in Panama, Martinelli urged voters to choose a candidate who will bring happiness, prosperity, justice, and peace to the country. Eight candidates are vying for the presidency, with Mulino being seen as a potential winner alongside candidates such as Rómulo Roux, Ricardo Lombana, and former president Martín Torrijos.
The election will also determine the new vice president, deputies to the Central American Parliament and National Assembly, mayors, township representatives, and councilors for the next constitutional period. Despite the controversy surrounding Martinelli’s involvement in the campaign, Panamanians are urged to vote conscientiously and choose a candidate who will bring positive change to the country.