PANAMA CITY (AP) — Six of the eight candidates vying to be Panama’s next president laid out their plans to generate jobs and to manage the country’s water crisis in their final debate Wednesday night before the country’s May 5 election.
Former government minister José Raúl Mulino, who has led in opinion polls since taking over the top place on his ticket when former President Ricardo Martinelli was sentenced to prison, skipped the event as he did the two previous debates.
Another candidate, José Gabriel Carrizo, was also absent after saying he would not participate if organizers could not get Mulino there.
The remaining field featured a couple of also-rans from previous elections — Ricardo Lombana and Rómulo Roux — as well as former President Martín Torrijos. Those three are in a virtual tie for second behind Mulino, according to recent polls.
Sydney shopping mall reopens after stabbings. Police make first arrest in riot after church attack
Push for more parental care leave gathers pace
2 dead, 3 missing as ship hits bridge in south China
United Airlines, Eli Lilly rise; JB Hunt, Travelers fall, Wednesday, 4/17/2024
HKSAR LegCo unanimously passes national security bill
Wrexham are PROMOTED to League One after thrashing Forest Green 6
Sudan: Aid groups warn of mass death from hunger
New Hampshire man who brought decades
In Numbers: China's agricultural and rural economy in 2023
'Callous' crook who pretended to be an 82
Father's DIY 'excavator' toy delights daughter and wins hearts online