Noriega: God's Favorite

The story of Panamanian general Manuel Antonio "Tony" Noriega traces his rise from extreme poverty to prominence as a soldier and CIA informant, while also serving as an informant for other foreign powers and, allegedly, the Colombian drug mafia he publicly claimed to combat. His career is marked by a series of high-risk actions, often criticized by others as going too far, yet he consistently managed to avoid serious consequences. The narrative begins with Noriega confessing to a priest, reflecting on what he perceives as divine favor—believing that each time he took greater risks, he was rewarded with escape from repercussions. His actions and relationships, particularly with the CIA and U.S. political figures such as future president George H. W. Bush, played a central role in his ascent and eventual downfall.