On the platform, he stands rigidly erect through the introductory speeches, eyes closed, almost as if he were conducting a séance. When his turn comes, the words float out like messianic balm. "We must fight Communism but also reaction. We have a weapon against poverty and other ills democracy." It sounds standard enough, but in Panama, Arnulfo Arias, 62, has the touch. When he spoke in Colón (pop. 60,000), 15,000 people turned out to cheer. On a muddy field in San Miguelito, 2,500 followers swarmed worshipfully around his white station wagon. Twice Arias has been elected President of...
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