US takes neutral stance on upcoming election

The United States government has taken a neutral position with regard to the presidential elections in Panama, to be held next May. “We hope to work in a positive environment with whomever is elected, because that is how it is done in a democracy,” said Gavin Sundwall, of the American embassy in Panama City.

Sundwal had been asked for his opinion on election of Balbina Herrera as the Partido Revolucionario Democrático presidential candidate. Without mention of any of the presidential candidates specifically, Sundwall said that the countries have had a long relationship that goes further than any presidential campaign here in Panama or in the United States, as that country is also in the midst of an election campaign.

Herrera won Sunday's presidential primary over Panama City Mayor Juan Carlos Navarro and 11 other candidates. She will face Partido Panameñista candidate Juan Carlos Varela, Cambio Democrático candidate Ricardo Martinelli, who also has the support of the Union Patriótica party, and former president Guillermo Endara, who represents the Vanguardia Moral de la Patria, in the general election.