The former president of Panama, Ricardo Martinelli, who is currently seeking refuge at the Nicaraguan embassy in Panama City, has expressed his desire to undergo surgery at a private hospital. However, authorities warn that if Martinelli leaves the Nicaraguan diplomatic premises, he will be detained.
According to Martinelli's lawyer, the surgery that the former president needs cannot be performed at the embassy due to the complexity of the medical procedure. Although the exact nature of the required surgery is unknown, it has been reported that it involves a health issue that requires specialized attention.
In this regard, Panamanian authorities have stated that should Martinelli decide to leave the embassy to go to a private hospital, he will be immediately detained due to the multiple legal proceedings against him. The former president faces various charges in Panama, including cases of political spying and corruption during his term, for which extradition has been requested.
Given this situation, the Panamanian Prosecutor's Office has ensured that any attempt by Martinelli to leave the embassy for surgery would result in his immediate arrest. For now, the ex-president remains at the Nicaraguan diplomatic mission, awaiting updates on his legal situation and medical treatment.
