Former President Ricardo Martinelli has defied all odds and launched his political campaign for the upcoming presidential elections in Panama, despite a controversial verdict. Just a day before the campaign kick-off, the Supreme Court rejected Martinelli’s appeal to overturn his 11-year prison sentence for money laundering, putting his candidacy at risk.
Martinelli’s determination to fight until the end and his unwavering popularity among the people of Panama propelled him forward. Leading the Realizando Metas party, he launched his campaign as a candidate of the “Alliance to Save Panama.” Even though his sentence may prevent him from running in the elections, Martinelli’s supporters remain steadfast in their belief in him.
Key Takeaways:
- Former President Ricardo Martinelli launched his campaign for the presidential elections, despite a court ruling and an ongoing legal battle.
- Martinelli’s appeal to overturn his 11-year prison sentence for money laundering was rejected by the Supreme Court.
- Despite the verdict, Martinelli remains popular among the people of Panama and leads the Realizando Metas party.
- His supporters have expressed their commitment to continuing their support, even if he is disqualified as a presidential candidate.
- The upcoming elections in Panama are set to be a highly anticipated and closely watched event.
The Controversial Verdict and Legal Proceedings
Former President Ricardo Martinelli‘s legal battles took a significant turn when he was sentenced in July to 128 months in prison and a $19 million fine for money laundering. The verdict came as a result of corruption charges surrounding his alleged purchase of shares in Editora Panamá América using funds obtained from commissions collected on infrastructure projects.
The Supreme Court ruling in October upheld Martinelli’s sentence, denying any appeals or habeas corpus petitions that followed. Despite this setback, Martinelli is not out of the legal woods yet.
In July, the ex-president will face another trial, this time accused of money laundering tied to bribes paid by the Brazilian construction company Odebrecht. Martinelli’s involvement with Odebrecht is not a new story; two of his sons had previously served prison time in the United States for collecting commissions from the company.
This ongoing legal battle casts a shadow over Martinelli’s campaign for the May 5 presidential elections. It remains to be seen how the corruption charges and money laundering verdict will affect his political future.
Martinelli’s Popularity and Supporters
Despite the legal troubles surrounding former President Ricardo Martinelli, he continues to enjoy significant popularity among the people of Panama. Many of his supporters firmly believe that Martinelli’s presidency brought about notable economic growth for the country. They view him as a better option, particularly during times of high unemployment, as he is perceived to have successfully navigated challenges and created opportunities for economic progress.
Evidence of Martinelli’s enduring support was on full display during a recent campaign rally, where thousands of enthusiastic followers gathered to show their unwavering support. Chanting slogans and proudly wearing shirts adorned with the initials of Martinelli’s party, these loyal supporters reiterated their unwavering commitment to his cause.
Furthermore, Martinelli’s supporters have expressed their determination to stand by him, even in the event of his disqualification from the presidential race. They have vowed to continue their support for either Martinelli or his running mate, demonstrating a steadfast dedication to the ideals and goals championed by their preferred candidate.
FAQ
What was the court ruling that put former President Ricardo Martinelli’s candidacy at risk?
The Supreme Court rejected Martinelli’s last appeal to overturn his 11-year prison sentence for money laundering, potentially preventing him from running in the elections.
What party does Martinelli lead and under which alliance is he running?
Martinelli leads the Realizando Metas party and launched his campaign as a candidate of the “Alliance to Save Panama.”
What was Martinelli sentenced for, and when did the sentence occur?
Martinelli was sentenced in July to 128 months in prison and a $19 million fine for money laundering. He was accused of buying shares in Editora Panamá América with money from commissions collected on infrastructure projects.
Has Martinelli’s sentence been upheld, and did he face any additional legal proceedings?
Yes, the Supreme Court ruling upheld his sentence in October, and subsequent appeals and habeas corpus petitions were rejected. Martinelli will face another trial in July for alleged money laundering connected to bribes paid by the Brazilian construction company Odebrecht.
Why does Martinelli remain popular among the people of Panama?
Many of his supporters believe that he was a president who brought economic growth to the country, especially in times of high unemployment.
How did Martinelli’s campaign rally demonstrate support from his followers?
Martinelli’s campaign rally drew thousands of followers who chanted their support and wore shirts with the initials of his party. His supporters have expressed their willingness to continue supporting him or his running mate if he is disqualified from the presidential race.