Panama's judiciary orders arrest of ex-president holed up in Nicaragua's embassy
This article is a summary of reporting by AP News. Originally published February 23, 2024.
Judicial authorities in Panama ordered the arrest of former President Ricardo Martinelli in February 2024 after he breached bail terms by seeking political asylum at the Nicaraguan embassy in Panama City. The court action followed the finalization of his money-laundering sentence in the 'New Business' corruption case. Martinelli fled to the diplomatic mission to avoid incarceration, claiming he was facing political persecution by the Panamanian government. Panama's foreign ministry subsequently declined Nicaragua's request to grant him safe passage out of the country.
AI Summary
A Panamanian court issued an arrest warrant for Ricardo Martinelli after he took refuge inside the Nicaraguan embassy in Panama City following his conviction.
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