Ex-president faces third money laundering pro

Following on two previous marathon investigations totaling over 30 hours former Panama president Juan Carlos Varela arrived at the offices of the special anti-corruption prosecutor on Monday, July 21 for further questioning for alleged money laundering, related to bribes paid by the Brazilian Odebrecht construction company.

“In these sad, difficult, and complicated moments that the country is experiencing, I have come to comply with the authorities because it is my duty as a citizen,” said Varela who is under country arrest with orders to report monthly.

He added that “in a democracy, respect for the authorities is part of the proper functioning.” 

In past visits, Varela has claimed to be a man of “showing face” and not “running away.”

 In a similar investigation. former president Ricardo Martinelli declined to answer questions and in others, ahs produced medical disability certificates.

…