Tribunal Electoral Recognizes UNE as a Party in Formation and Opens Registration

PANAMA, October 23, 2026 — Panama’s Electoral Tribunal has recognized Unidos para la Nueva Era (UNE) as a political party in formation and declared its registration process open, according to a report on Resolution No. 29 dated October 22.

The organization is associated in the report with former President Martín Torrijos. Recognition as a party in formation is a procedural step; it is not the same as a final electoral result or a guarantee of later political success.

What the decision means

The Tribunal’s decision opens a period for adherent registration. The report cited figures of 1,248 and 10,000 in connection with the process, but readers should consult the Electoral Tribunal’s official materials for the current requirements, deadlines and verification rules before relying on any summary.

Party formation is governed by formal procedures. Those rules are designed to provide a documented route for organizations seeking recognition and to make the process visible to the public.

What comes next

UNE said it would continue organization, logistics and training work for a broad registration process when circumstances allow, while placing priority on solidarity with people affected by the earthquake. The next meaningful public milestones will be official information about registration activity and any Tribunal notices that affect the process.

Political coverage should separate confirmed administrative decisions from campaign messaging and speculation. This article reports the Tribunal recognition described by the source and will be updated if the official record provides new procedural information.

Source: Metro Libre, October 22, 2026.