Panama Denies Nicaragua’s Request for Ex-Panamanian President’s Exit

Panama Denies Safe Passage for Former President Martinelli

Panama City – The Panamanian government has rejected a request from Nicaragua to allow ex-President Ricardo Martinelli safe passage out of the country, following Nicaragua’s decision to grant him asylum.

Martinelli, who is running for president in Panama’s upcoming May elections, is facing challenges due to a nearly 11-year prison sentence for money laundering issued last year, which raises doubts about his eligibility to campaign for his former position.

After Panama’s Supreme Court declined to annul his sentence, Martinelli took refuge in the Nicaraguan embassy. Under Panama’s constitution, individuals sentenced to five years or more in prison are barred from serving as president, although electoral authorities have yet to formally disqualify any candidates.

The foreign ministry of Panama urged Nicaragua to refrain from overstepping its jurisdiction, warning that any statements or actions Martinelli makes from the embassy that affect Panama’s domestic affairs could be interpreted as interference and may carry diplomatic repercussions.

Shortly after Panama’s announcement, Nicaragua reaffirmed its humanitarian grounds for granting asylum to Martinelli, asserting he believes he is a victim of political persecution and fears for his life in Panama.

Nicaragua’s foreign ministry emphasized that failing to recognize Martinelli’s asylum claim and denying him safe passage would violate international asylum conventions.

Martinelli’s vice presidential candidate, Jose Raul Mulino, expressed concerns about a potential international dispute between the two nations, stating that such asylum decisions should be made by the country being requested.

Earlier on the same day, a senior U.S. diplomat, Brian Nichols, criticized Nicaragua’s choice to grant Martinelli asylum, suggesting it undermines the rule of law.