The former president of the country, Juan Orlando Hernandez, has returned to his country, Honduras, after being released from prison in the United States. After a special pardon by US President Donald Trump, his way back to the country was opened. Hernandez was sentenced to 45 years in prison after being convicted of drug trafficking. He was taken to the United States about four years ago.
He arrived in Honduras on Sunday (July 26). Family members and a large number of supporters were present to welcome him at the airport. After a long time, the former president got emotional after returning to the country.
Expressing his feelings on social media, Hernandez said that his time in prison was one of the most difficult experiences of his life.
He wrote that no one should have to face such a terrible situation. He mentioned that the prison days were the darkest period of his life. He also did not forget to express his gratitude to his followers.
In December last year, Donald Trump released him on a special presidential pardon.
Trump claimed that the former president’s case was completely politically motivated. According to him, the then-Joe Biden administration framed him with this trumped-up case.
Trump also alleged that Juan Orlando Hernandez did not receive any justice in the United States.
However, despite being released from the US case, the fraud and money laundering charges against Hernandez in Honduras remain. He is scheduled to appear in court on August 3 on these charges. However, he was not detained after his return as the arrest warrant issued against him in June was suspended.
Meanwhile, human rights activists have expressed fear that the trial of this influential former president may not be completed properly. According to them, the judicial process can only be limited to formalities. In the end he may avoid punishment.
Hernandez served as the President of Honduras from 2014 to 2022.
Earlier, he was accused of embezzling state funds and using illegal money for political campaigns.
TimesBD/ rabbi
