OFF THE CUFF: Kid glove treatment for Martinellis brother?
MARIO MARTINELLI, brother of former President Ricardo was spared the tiring 15 minute drive to Via Espana and the spare furnishings, of the anti- corruption-prosecutor’s office on Friday, August 7.
Although he has been seen at business meetings linked to family interests in Panama City in the past week, his appearance before Prosecutor Vielka Broce on Friday, August 7, took place in the comfort of his luxury home in Costa Del Este and Broce added the driving time to her packed anti-corruption schedule.
Martinelli was questioned as part of the investigation into cost overruns in the purchase of backpacks by the National Assistance Program (PAN). He is also facing further questioning relating to another PAN scandal.
Also attending the interview were officials from the Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences.
He was summoned to appear before prosecutors July 31, but his lawyers reacted by presenting a medical certificate stating he could not attend. That prompted Broce to seek an opinion from the Institute, which concluded that Martinelli could be questioned for short periods at his residence.
Commentators have implied selective treatment for some of those facing corruption allegations, bit Panama’s Attorney General, Kenia Porcell has denied the charges. Martinelli is reported to be suffering from diabetes.
