Demetrio B. Lakas

Demetrio Basilio Lakas Bahas was the 27th President of Panama from December 19, 1969 to October 11, 1978.

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 1953 and was honored as a distinguished alumnus in 1970.
Lakas was nicknamed "Jimmy the Greek" due to his origin.

Presidency

Lakas was popular among his fellow businessmen. After General Omar Torrijos survived a military coup against him on 16 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 at the age of 74 in Panama City after succumbing to a heart disease.