Ernesto Peréz Balladares

president of Panama

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July 23, 2026

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Ernesto Pérez Balladares served as the president of Panama from 1994 to 1999. He led the Democratic Revolutionary Party (PRD) to victory, distancing the party from its association with former dictator Manuel Noriega.1

During his administration, Pérez Balladares focused on economic reforms, including privatizing state-owned enterprises, reducing trade barriers, and encouraging private investment. These policies led to a decrease in unemployment and crime rates. He also worked on the transition of U.S. military bases and the Panama Canal back to Panamanian control, a process that faced controversy and strained relations with the United States. His attempt to seek reelection was blocked by a referendum defeat in 1998.1

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Panama
Transitions to democracy and sovereignty
Led by Ernesto Pérez Balladares, a former cabinet member, the PRD distanced itself from Noriega, and Pérez Balladares won by a plurality. In the assembly the Christian Democrats, who had been the largest bloc, were reduced to a single seat.
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Led by Ernesto Pérez Balladares, a former cabinet member, the PRD distanced itself from Noriega, and Pérez Balladares won by a plurality. In the assembly the Christian Democrats, who had been the largest bloc, were reduced to a single seat.
Read More