
Newly elected Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino announced Thursday that he plans to end the use of Panama’s Darien Gap as a route for migrants headed to the United States. Mulino’s remarks came after the National Scrutiny Board officially confirmed him as president for the 2024-2029 term.
“I will make an effort to end the odyssey of the Darien, which has no reason to exist,” Mulino said in his speech, highlighting that Panama will no longer allow itself to be a crossing point for migrants. The Darien Gap, a dense jungle separating Panama and Colombia, is often used by migrants on their way to North America, despite its treacherous conditions.
Mulino’s plan focuses on closing Panama’s southern border with the help of international cooperation. His administration will begin repatriating migrants who cross into Panama, ensuring that the process respects their human rights. Mulino emphasized that Panama is not a transit country, and the Darien Gap is part of its national border that must be secured.
Addressing those considering the dangerous journey, Mulino stated, “Whoever arrives here will be sent back to their country of origin.” His government plans to take a firm stance on the migration issue while collaborating with other nations to prevent the flow of migrants through Panama.
The Darien Gap has long been a perilous route for migrants, and Mulino’s commitment to shutting down this passage will likely be a key element of his presidency. By securing Panama’s borders, Mulino hopes to reduce the risks posed to both migrants and Panamanian citizens.