By Parrot Newspaper From Power to Prison—and Then Embassy Refuge: How Convicted Ex-Panama President Martinelli Was Granted Asylum in Colombia
Panama City – In a dramatic turn of events, former Panamanian President Ricardo Martinelli has been granted asylum in Colombia, ending a 15-month diplomatic stalemate that saw him holed up in Nicaragua’s embassy in Panama City.
The 73-year-old supermarket magnate, who led Panama from 2009 to 2014, had been dodging an 11-year prison sentence for money laundering—a conviction he insists is politically motivated.
A Safe Passage, Finally
Panama’s foreign ministry confirmed that Martinelli was allowed to leave under a “safe conduct” agreement, clearing the way for his arrival in Bogotá on Saturday. The Colombian government, recognizing his asylum request, offered him refuge—a move that closes a contentious chapter in Panama’s political saga.
Martinelli didn’t waste time celebrating. Taking to Instagram, he posted a beaming selfie with the caption: “Happy and content to be in Bogotá.”
From Power to Prison—and Then Embassy Refuge
Martinelli’s legal troubles stem from a 2023 conviction for using embezzled public funds to buy a stake in a media company. Just before an arrest warrant was issued in February 2024, he dashed into Nicaragua’s embassy, where he remained under diplomatic protection.
Despite leading early polls for Panama’s May 2024 presidential race, he was disqualified, paving the way for his running mate—and political ally—José Raúl Mulino to take office. Mulino later facilitated Martinelli’s attempted relocation to Nicaragua, but that plan collapsed when Managua refused entry, citing concerns over an unresolved Interpol notice.
A Controversial Figure, Still Defiant
Martinelli, a brash businessman-turned-politician, has long been a polarizing figure. Supporters see him as a victim of judicial persecution, while critics argue his conviction underscores Panama’s struggle against corruption.
With asylum secured, the question now is: What’s next for Martinelli? Will he remain in Colombia, or will this be just another stop in his ongoing political and legal drama?
For now, Bogotá is his new home—but given his history, this may not be the last twist in his story.
— Parrot Newspaper
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Why This Matters:
Political Asylum as Escape Route? Martinelli’s case highlights how diplomatic protections can delay justice—or provide a lifeline for embattled leaders.
Panama’s Corruption Battle: His conviction was a rare high-profile case in a region where powerful figures often evade accountability.
Regional Alliances at Play: Nicaragua’s initial shelter, then refusal, shows the delicate dance of regional politics.
What do you think—was this a fair resolution, or does it set a troubling precedent? Sound off in the comments