Panama upholds decision to ban ex-President Martinelli form running in 2024 election

Panama's electoral court announced on Sunday it rejected a challenge from former President Ricardo Martinelli's defense team against a decision to ban him from running in the country's upcoming general election.

The court declared him ineligible earlier this month, citing his inability to run due to a nearly 11-year prison sentence for money laundering. Panama's constitution bars anyone sentenced to a prison term of five years or more from serving as president.