Panama Disqualifies Former President Martinelli from May Presidential Election

The electoral tribunal's decision follows Martinelli's 10-year sentence for money laundering, ending his re-election hopes.

Panama's electoral tribunal disqualified Ricardo Martinelli due to a 10-year sentence for money laundering.
Martinelli, who fled to Nicaragua's embassy seeking asylum, claims political persecution by current leaders.
Despite his disqualification, Martinelli's running mate, José Raúl Mulino, is authorized to continue as a presidential candidate.
Martinelli is the first former president of Panama convicted of a crime, facing multiple corruption scandals.
The U.S. government has barred Martinelli and his immediate family from entering the country due to 'significant' corruption.