AN ATTEMPT  by  former President Ricardo Martinelli to obtain the identity  of a protected witness in a case against him has been rejected by prosecutor, Supreme Court  Judge, Harry Diaz.

The protected witness is in the case  for allegedly ordering illegal spying on some 150 people during his administration.

The request came to the Supreme Court through attorney Leonardo Paul, who is part of the defense team. It was denied yesterday by Diaz, who communicated to the court that the witness fears for his safety, reports La Prensa.

"In view of this, it is necessary to protect this witness to safeguard the integrity of this case," he said.

A hearing in the case in front of Judge Jerome Mejía is slated for Dec. 11.

Diaz emphasized that the accused and his counsel must attend that hearing, as provided for in the criminal procedure code.

Diaz has alleged that Martinelli ordered the illegal surveillance of political opponents, judges, journalists and others while in office. The hearing is being held before the Supreme Court due to Martinelli's membership in the Central American Parliament.