Former Panama leader on trial over mega Latin America corruption scandal
This article is a summary of reporting by France 24. Originally published January 12, 2026.
A milestone money laundering trial commenced in Panama City focusing on millions of dollars distributed in kickbacks by Odebrecht to secure infrastructure projects. While former president Ricardo Martinelli faced trial directly, former president Juan Carlos Varela was also listed as an accused party whose proceedings were directed to the Supreme Court due to legislative jurisdictional procedures. Prosecutors argued that senior political leaders knowingly facilitated and benefited from Odebrecht's illicit payment pipelines. The trial represents the culmination of nearly a decade of judicial investigations following the Car Wash probe across Latin America.
AI Summary
Panama commenced its landmark Odebrecht bribery trial, with proceedings against former president Juan Carlos Varela referred to the Supreme Court.
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