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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