Former President Ricardo Martinelli of Panama has been disqualified from running in the upcoming May presidential election due to a 10-year sentence he received for money laundering. The decision was made by Panama’s electoral tribunal after a lengthy debate, citing his conviction for an intentional crime.
Despite his denial of the charges and claims of political persecution, Mr. Martinelli was denied an appeal by Panama’s Supreme Court last month. Following the ruling, he sought asylum in Nicaragua and is currently residing in its embassy in Panama City.
His spokesman, Luis Eduardo Camacho, criticized the tribunal’s decision as “illegal” and accused them of procedural violations, claiming Panama is under a “civil dictatorship.” However, the electoral tribunal has allowed Mr. Martinelli’s running mate, José Raúl Mulino, to run for president in his place.
The disqualification leaves a number of other presidential candidates in the race, including Ricardo Lombana, who expressed his thoughts on social media. Despite his legal troubles, Mr. Martinelli’s supporters point to his tenure as president during a period of economic growth and the expansion of the Panama Canal.
As the political saga continues, Mr. Martinelli seems to be settling into life at the Nicaraguan Embassy, sharing videos of himself exercising and relaxing with his dog. In a message posted online, he remains defiant, stating that this is just the beginning of his story.
The unfolding events surrounding Mr. Martinelli’s disqualification have captivated the nation as Panama prepares for a pivotal presidential election in May.
