José Ramón Icaza – Minister of the Panama Canal

José Ramón Icaza is chosen by the president-elect, José Raúl Mulino, to occupy the position of minister of the Panama Canal. He would also be in charge of leading the logistics cabinet, an entity in charge of ensuring public-private dialogue to facilitate maritime and land transportation, interoperability and digitalization of the State.  As Minister of the Canal, he will be a key player between the waterway and the Executive to make decisions regarding the execution of a water project that guarantees water for human consumption and the passage of ships.  Mulino has not officially revealed the members of his cabinet, but the names of several ministers are beginning to be known. It is expected that they will be chosen before June 1, so that they can face the transition process. 

Icaza was president of the Chamber of Commerce, in the period 2021-2022, right in the middle of the crisis left by the blockade of the economy due to covid-19.  He has been part of the team that led the Gana Panamá alliance, which brings together more than 150 organizations, which presented a comprehensive plan to address challenges such as educational improvement, security, employment, economy and health.  Icaza highlighted, at the time that this roadmap would serve to guide the actions of the next Government.  He is a civil engineer, with a master’s degree in construction project management and finance.  On the other hand, he is the owner and general manager of Proyectos Mar Azul, with operations in Panama and Colombia. This consulting firm specializes in construction project management in the residential, commercial and tourism sectors.  He participated in the discussion of the public-private partnership law, the money laundering law and the project that modified the standard and regulation of horizontal property.  On May 8, through his X account, he congratulated the elected authorities, indicating that it was time to unite to take advantage of the opportunities as a country.