The initial candidate selection has sparked concerns about the extent of corruption within the political system, with some candidates having been accused of corrupt activity and one convicted of money laundering. The legislature has still not approved a long-awaited electoral law, raising the prospect of a contentious election.
Parties selecting presidential candidates linked to corruption allegations could attract international criticism.
Washington is likely to be wary of Yani Rosenthal, who has served a prison sentence in the United States.
The legislative agenda will slow in 2021 as political attention focuses on the elections.
A vocally anti-corruption candidate is yet to emerge but could do well in a field of candidates suspected of wrongdoing.
