Martinelli corks talk of re-election

President Ricardo Martinelli on Wednesday, November 12,  sought to quash  rumors of his intention to seek re-election by promising, to demand  the resignation of those who discuss the subject.

The word comes from the president himself who on Wednesday said he has  never considered running for re-election  and only wants to stay in power for  five years. "The next official who talks of my re-election will be asked to resign” he said.

Martinelli made the comments while delivering toys to children at the Rufus A. Garay Institute in Colon  whose homes were damaged by floods.

Martinelli said no date has been set for the resumption of the dialogue with the Frente Amplio por Colón (FAC) that was halted due to flooding in the city.

The FAC has been critical of the government for suspending the dialogue and has threatened to protest until it is resumed. The group is also demanding prompt solution to problems in the province, such as the lack of water, housing,  and  jobs.

Martinelli  said he wants to bring improvements to the city and said that the government has made large investments in the infrastructure.

Regarding the registration of PRD founding member Miguel Bush with the government, Martinelli said he welcomed the experienced politician.