Laurentino Cortizo
Who was Laurentino Cortizo?
Current President of Panama who took office in July 2024 as the country's 52nd president.
Biographical data adapted from Wikipedia’s article on Laurentino Cortizo (CC BY-SA 4.0).
Biography
Laurentino 'Nito' Cortizo Cohen was born on January 30, 1953, in Panama City, Panama. He studied in the United States, attending the University of Texas at Austin, St. Edward's University, and Norwich University. Before entering politics, Cortizo had a successful career in agribusiness. He became a well-known agricultural entrepreneur in Panama and played a key role in the Cortizo family business, which includes cattle ranching, sugar production, and related industries.
Before Fame
Growing up in Panama City during a time of political unrest, Cortizo experienced the military rule of Omar Torrijos and later Manuel Noriega. His family background in agriculture and business gave him a good sense of Panama's rural economy from a young age. Studying at several American universities improved his business skills and knowledge of international issues, setting the stage for his future in national politics.
Key Achievements
- Served as the 38th President of Panama from 2019 to 2024
- Elected President of the National Assembly of Panama for the 2000–2001 term
- Appointed Minister of Agricultural and Livestock Development from 2004 to 2006
- Represented Colón Province in the National Assembly for ten consecutive years, from 1994 to 2004
- Led Panama through the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic recovery efforts during his presidential term
Did You Know?
- 01.Cortizo is widely known by his nickname 'Nito,' which he has used throughout his political career.
- 02.He managed significant agricultural enterprises in Panama before turning to electoral politics, making him one of the wealthiest presidents in the country's history.
- 03.He won the 2019 presidential election with only 33.27% of the vote in a crowded field, the lowest winning percentage in recent Panamanian electoral history.
- 04.He served as a member of the National Assembly representing Colón Province for a full decade, from 1994 to 2004, before taking executive branch roles.
- 05.His spouse, Yazmín Colón de Cortizo, was active in social and humanitarian causes during his presidency.