Jose Raul Mulino, Panama’s president-elect, has vowed to stop the flow of migrants using the dangerous Darien Gap as a route to the United States. In his speech on Thursday, following his official proclamation as president for the 2024-2029 term, Mulino stressed that Panama will no longer allow migrants to use its territory as a transit point.

“I will make an effort to end the odyssey of the Darien,” Mulino said, making it clear that Panama’s Darien region is not open for illegal crossings. The Darien Gap, a hazardous stretch of jungle between Panama and Colombia, has long been used by migrants seeking to reach the U.S., despite the many dangers it poses.

Mulino announced plans to work with international partners to repatriate migrants who attempt to cross Panama’s borders. He emphasized that this process would respect human rights, but underscored that Panama must protect its national border. His administration aims to prevent the Darien Gap from being a migration corridor.

Addressing those in South America who might attempt the journey, Mulino warned, “Whoever arrives here will be sent back to their country of origin.” His administration will work to close Panama’s borders to migrants and take firm action against those seeking to cross illegally.