PANAMA CITY (AP) — Panama’s Supreme Court rejected a constitutional challenge to the candidacy of leading presidential contender José Raúl Mulino on Friday, providing clarity just two days before the May 5 vote. The challenge was brought forth by lawyer Karisma Etienne Karamañites, who contended that Mulino did not meet the eligibility criteria as he had not been chosen through a primary by the Achieving Goals party of former president Ricardo Martinelli.
In a significant turn of events, Panama’s Electoral Tribunal had previously disqualified Martinelli from running due to a money laundering conviction that resulted in a prison sentence exceeding 10 years. This decision effectively ended Martinelli's bid for a political comeback, as the country's constitution prohibits individuals sentenced to five years or more for a crime from holding elected office.
Following Martinelli's disqualification, Mulino, a 64-year-old maritime lawyer and former security minister, emerged as the frontrunner in the presidential race. Despite lacking Martinelli's charisma and widespread popularity, Mulino quickly garnered significant support.
Meanwhile, Martinelli has been actively supporting Mulino's campaign from the confines of Nicaragua’s embassy in Panama, where he sought political asylum in February. With the Supreme Court upholding Mulino's candidacy, the stage is set for a competitive election on Sunday, with seven candidates vying for the presidency.
In a separate development, candidate Melitón Arrocha, who had been trailing in polls, announced his decision to suspend his campaign and endorse ex-President Martín Torrijos, further reshaping the dynamics of the electoral race.
