Panama's new president-elect, José Raúl Mulino, was a late entry in the race
In a historic and tumultuous election in Panama, José Raúl Mulino has landed in the role of president-elect despite not even expecting to be the candidate a few months ago
By Juan Zamorano
Published - May 06, 2024, 12:29 AM ET
Last Updated - May 27, 2024, 01:02 AM EDT
PANAMA CITY (AP) — José Raúl Mulino said he was practically retired from politics just over six months ago.
Now, he’ll be Panama’s president for the next five years.
Standing before a pack of supporters Sunday night, Mulino said: “I never imagined this.”
In a historic and tumultuous election, preliminary results put Mulino on top to lead the normally sleepy Central American nation through a moment of political tension, historic migration and a struggling economy.