José Raúl Mulino Sworn in as Panama's President, Targets Darien Gap Migration

José Raúl Mulino was inaugurated as Panama's new president on Monday. He faces the challenge of curbing irregular migration through the Darien Gap, a jungle border with Colombia. The 65-year-old former security minister has pledged to halt migration through this largely unregulated area.

"I won't allow Panama to be an open path for thousands of people who enter our country illegally, supported by an international organisation related to drug trafficking and human trafficking," Mulino stated after his swearing-in ceremony. "I understand that there are deep-rooted reasons for migration, but each country has to resolve its problems."

US Involvement in Deportation Costs

Last week, during a visit to the Darien, Mulino announced plans to seek an agreement with the United States government. The US would assist in deporting migrants who have crossed into Panama. US Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas attended Mulino's inauguration, indicating support for this initiative.

Panama's Foreign Affairs Minister-designate Javier Martínez Acha mentioned on Sunday that the US would help cover deportation costs, although specific amounts were not yet determined. "The US government will have to shoulder the costs of deportation," said Michael Shifter, adjunct professor at Georgetown University.

Migration Policy Shift

Mulino's administration marks a significant shift in Panama's approach to migration. The previous administration aimed to help migrants cross the country quickly and orderly. Migrants would register with authorities upon emerging from the jungle and be transported to the Costa Rican border.

Strengthening enforcement efforts in Panama could reduce the number of migrants reaching the US border temporarily. However, it might also push migrants towards riskier routes and benefit smugglers. "The new president appears to be supremely committed to this idea," Shifter noted.

Economic Challenges Ahead

Besides migration, Mulino will manage one of the world's crucial trade routes, the Panama Canal. Persistent drought forced traffic limitations this year. He also needs to address a budget shortfall caused by cancelling a major mining concession after popular protests.

On Monday, Mulino criticised outgoing President Laurentino Cortizo's administration for leaving behind a struggling economy and high public debt levels. "I will have an administration mainly focused on resolving the problem of the great majority of Panamanians," he said.

Election Victory and Promises

Mulino won the May election with over 30 per cent of the vote in a crowded field. He replaced former President Ricardo Martinelli as candidate after Martinelli was banned from running due to a 10-year prison sentence for money laundering.

Mulino promised initiatives aimed at youth employment and infrastructure development. "That doesn't mean getting rid of wealth, but rather combating poverty," he emphasised. His plans include launching a programme focused on youth employment and rebuilding roads and highways.

The presidents of Costa Rica and Colombia also attended Mulino's inauguration. Strengthening enforcement efforts in Panama could potentially reduce migrant numbers reaching the US border until new routes are established.

Mulino's commitment to ending irregular immigration through the Darien Gap is clear. However, implementing this policy will be challenging due to various opposing groups and interests.