Ex-President of Panama Ricardo Martinelli Disqualified from Upcoming May Elections – Sky Bulletin
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In a recent announcement from Panama City, the Electoral Tribunal ruled out Ricardo Martinelli, the former president, from participating in the forthcoming presidential elections scheduled for May 5. This decision was driven by his conviction and subsequent 10-year sentence for money laundering last year, as confirmed by the tribunal’s head magistrate on Monday evening.
During his tenure from 2009 to 2014, Martinelli, who is also known for his successful supermarket business, was found guilty of laundering money through the acquisition of a media group using state funds.
Following an order for his arrest last month, Martinelli has sought refuge and was granted asylum at the Nicaraguan Embassy.
According to Magistrate Alfredo Juncá, Martinelli’s disqualification became effective immediately after the upholding of his sentence.
Seventy-one-year-old Martinelli was the presidential candidate for his political party, despite regulations in the Panamanian constitution that prohibit individuals sentenced for a crime with five or more years from taking elected office positions.
The Electoral Tribunal nonetheless authorized José Raúl Mulino, Martinelli’s former running mate and ex-Foreign Minister, to continue his presidential campaign. Martinelli was also barred from contesting for a legislative seat.
While maintaining his innocence, Martinelli claims that the actions against him are politically motivated. His presidency, characterized by significant infrastructure developments such as the Panama City’s subway line inception, marks him as Panama’s first former president to receive a criminal conviction.
In a related sanction last year, the United States prohibited Martinelli and his close family members from entry due to his “significant” corruption involvement, as described by the U.S. government.
FAQs about Ricardo Martinelli’s Disqualification
- Why was Ricardo Martinelli disqualified from the May elections?
He was disqualified due to a 10-year sentence for money laundering that was confirmed by Panama’s Electoral Tribunal. - Is Ricardo Martinelli allowed to seek a legislative seat instead?
No, the disqualification also prevents him from running for any legislative position. - Who will now lead the party in the presidential elections?
José Raúl Mulino, Martinelli’s former running mate, has been authorized to continue the presidential race as the candidate. - Has Ricardo Martinelli been involved in politics since his presidency ended?
Martinelli has remained a notable figure in Panamanian politics, however, after his legal troubles and conviction, his active participation has been significantly challenged.
Conclusion
The recent developments with former Panamanian President Ricardo Martinelli being barred from the upcoming May presidential elections marks a significant moment in the nation’s political history. Facing a 10-year sentence for money laundering, his conviction serves as both a deterrent and a reminder of the consequences of corruption at the highest levels of governance. As the Electoral Tribunal has given the green light for his running mate José Raúl Mulino to continue with the presidential campaign, the focus now shifts to how this decision will play out in the political landscape of Panama.
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