Panama City, May 9 (EFE).- Ramón Fonseca Mora, the prominent lawyer and co-founder of the law firm Mossack & Fonseca, passed away on May 8 at the age of 71 after battling pneumonia, as confirmed by a family source to EFE.
Fonseca Mora’s daughter, Raquel Fonseca, shared that her father’s health deteriorated significantly following the political persecution he faced in relation to the Panama Papers case. Despite the focus on this controversy, she emphasized his accomplishments as a politician, writer, and lawyer, highlighting his award-winning works such as ‘Angel Eyes’, ‘The Dance of the Butterflies’, and ‘Soñar con la ciudad’.
The passing of Fonseca Mora came amidst the ongoing trial for the Panama Papers case, a historic leak of documents from Mossack Fonseca that exposed money laundering activities of various individuals worldwide. The trial, which began on April 8, saw Fonseca Mora and other former partners facing accusations of money laundering and potential prison sentences.
Fonseca Mora, who was hospitalized during the trial due to his health condition, was unable to attend the court proceedings. The Panama Papers scandal implicated numerous world leaders, politicians, celebrities, and wealthy individuals from over 200 countries in financial wrongdoing through offshore corporations.
In addition to the Panama Papers case, Mossack and Fonseca were also awaiting sentencing for their involvement in the ‘Lava Jato’ corruption scandal in Brazil. The legal firm’s practices of helping clients hide assets and evade taxes were scrutinized by journalists from around the world, leading to widespread condemnation and legal action.
The legacy of Ramón Fonseca Mora, a talented writer and respected legal figure, is remembered by his family, colleagues, and the international community. Despite the controversies surrounding him, Fonseca Mora’s contributions to literature and law should not be overshadowed by his involvement in high-profile scandals.
The legal battles and investigations surrounding Mossack & Fonseca continue to shed light on the complex world of offshore finance and the individuals who exploit it for personal gain. Fonseca Mora’s passing marks the end of a chapter in this ongoing saga, but the repercussions of his actions and those of his firm will likely reverberate for years to come.
(c) EFE Agency