Preceded by Jose Maria Pinilla | Name Demetrio Lakas Nationality Panama | |
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Died November 2, 1999, Panama City, Panama | ||
Demetrio Basilio Lakas Bahas (August 29, 1925 in Colón, Panama – November 2, 1999 in Panama City) is 27th President of Panama from December 19, 1969 to October 11, 1978.
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Early life and education
The son of Greek immigrants, Lakas was born in Colón. Following his education in local schools, he graduated from Texas Tech University in 1963 and was honored as a distinguished alumnus in 1970.
Presidency
Lakas was popular among his fellow businessman. After General Omar Torrijos survived a military coup against him on 18 December 1969, Torrijos named him president of the provisional government. Lakas' presidency was primarily during rule of military officer Omar Torrijos, and was marked by media censorship and suppression of opposition movements. He also negotiated the 1977 Torrijos–Carter Treaty that transferred control of the Panama Canal from the US to Panama.
Death
He died on 2 November 1999 in Panama City after succumbing to a heart disease.