Panama approves embattled ex-President Martinelli’s passage to Nicaragua
Al JazeeraMAR 23
Panama Grants Former President Safe Conduct to Nicaragua
Above: Supporters of Ricardo Martinelli take part in a protest outside the Nicaraguan embassy where he is seeking asylum in Panama City, March 27, 2025. Image copyright: Martin Bernetti/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
It's disgraceful that Daniel Ortega's regime has made Nicaragua a haven for former presidents escaping from justice in their own countries. Martinelli is set to become the latest to flee to the country to live free despite being sentenced to prison. As for Panama, it's very convenient for Mulino to grant his mentor safe conduct.
Narrative B
Countries in the Western Hemisphere have long agreed to conventions on asylum and political asylum that recognize this practice as a humanitarian institution and that all persons may be under its protection. Therefore, it's only natural that Panama has finally granted Martinelli safe conduct to Nicaragua.