Ex-President Pardoned: Political Drama Unfolds in Honduras

Ex-President Juan Orlando Hernández has been pardoned by former US President Donald Trump, despite a hefty 45-year sentence for drug trafficking. Honduras authorities have now requested Interpol to execute an arrest order for him, alleging fraud and money laundering. This development is seen as a political maneuver by some.

The political landscape in Honduras has been shaken after former US President Donald Trump issued a pardon for ex-President Juan Orlando Hernández. Originally sentenced to 45 years for drug trafficking, Hernández has found himself at the center of legal and political drama.

Honduran authorities, led by Attorney General Johel Zelaya, have sought international assistance from Interpol to enforce a 2023 arrest order looming over Hernández for alleged fraud and money laundering. This follows Hernández's dramatic transition from a US anti-drug ally to a subject of US extradition and criminal charges.

The move, described as ''political theater'' by Hernández's legal team, has been criticized by some as an attempt by the opposing LIBRE party to exert power. With the arrest order in light of his sudden release, the situation remains a heated topic in the lead-up to Honduras' national elections.

(With inputs from agencies.)