Current President of Panama- A Glimpse into the Leadership of the Republic of Panama

Since taking office in 2019, the current President of Panama, Laurentino Cortizo, has been at the helm of one of Central America’s most important nations. Born on January 26, 1965, Cortizo has been actively involved in Panamanian politics for years, which has helped him navigate the complexities of his role as the nation’s leader. His presidency has been marked by a series of challenges and initiatives aimed at improving the country’s economy, infrastructure, and social welfare.

Laurentino Cortizo was first elected as President in May 2019, succeeding Juan Carlos Varela. His political career began in the Democratic Change Party (Partido Cambio Democrático), where he served as Minister of Health and later as Minister of Public Works. Cortizo’s background in healthcare and infrastructure has been instrumental in shaping his administration’s priorities.

One of the key initiatives during President Cortizo’s tenure has been the development of the Panama Canal expansion project. The expansion, which was completed in 2016, has significantly increased the canal’s capacity and has been a major source of economic growth for Panama. Cortizo has continued to push for further improvements and investments in the canal’s infrastructure to ensure its competitiveness in the global shipping industry.

Another focus of Cortizo’s presidency has been on combating corruption. He has vowed to crack down on corruption within the government and has taken several steps to strengthen the country’s anti-corruption institutions. This includes the creation of a new Supreme Court and the restructuring of the Public Prosecutor’s Office. These measures have been met with mixed reactions, as some argue that they are necessary for Panama’s progress, while others claim that they may be politically motivated.

In terms of social welfare, President Cortizo has implemented several programs aimed at reducing poverty and improving access to education and healthcare. The government has allocated resources to build new schools, hospitals, and roads, and has also increased funding for social programs that support the most vulnerable populations. However, critics argue that these efforts are not enough to address the root causes of poverty and inequality in Panama.

As the current President of Panama, Laurentino Cortizo faces a complex landscape of challenges and opportunities. His administration’s success in implementing reforms and improving the country’s quality of life will be crucial in determining his legacy. With a background in healthcare and infrastructure, Cortizo has the experience and skills to tackle some of the most pressing issues facing Panama today.