Ricardo Alberto Martinelli Berrocal (born March 11, 1952) is a Panamanian businessman and politician who served as the 36th President of Panama from 2009 to 2014. Before entering politics he built a national retail business and later founded the Cambio Democrático (Democratic Change) party. His presidency drew attention for its focus on public works and economic growth as well as for subsequent legal disputes after he left office.

Early life and business career

Martinelli rose to prominence as an entrepreneur. He established and expanded a chain of supermarkets and diversified holdings that made him one of Panama’s best-known private-sector figures. His business background was a central element of his political appeal, promoting a managerial, pro-business image and promising efficient administration and investment in infrastructure.

Presidency: policies and projects

In office from 2009 to 2014, Martinelli emphasized infrastructure, public works and social programs intended to reduce poverty and modernize urban services. Notable projects included investments in roads, public transit and improvements to ports and airports. Supporters credited his administration with economic dynamism and construction-led growth, while critics argued that some contracts lacked transparency.

After leaving the presidency Martinelli became the subject of multiple investigations. Authorities accused him of ordering illegal surveillance of political opponents and journalists, and of irregularities related to public procurement, including allegations tied to a school feeding contract. In 2017 an Interpol notice was associated with requests from Panamanian authorities. He was arrested in the United States in June 2017 and subsequently extradited to Panama in 2018 to face criminal charges.

  • Allegations: illegal wiretapping and misuse of public funds.
  • Legal actions: arrest abroad, extradition, and trials in Panama.

Assessment and legacy

Martinelli’s legacy remains contested. Supporters highlight infrastructure improvements and social spending; detractors point to governance concerns and the seriousness of the post-presidential investigations. The outcomes of various court cases have shaped public debate about corruption, rule of law and accountability in Panama’s modern politics.

Further information

For biographical and political overviews see biography sources, background on Panamanian politics at country resources, and analyses of his political career at political profiles. Official notices and international law-enforcement references are available through international agencies.