US court dismisses appeal from former Honduran president Hernandez

A US appeals court has dismissed the appeal filed by former Honduran president Juan Orlando Hernandez, thereby upholding his conviction on drug trafficking charges. The court's decision confirms the 45-year prison sentence imposed on him in March 2024, after he was found guilty of conspiracy to import cocaine into the United States and firearms possession.

Hernandez, who served as Honduras's president from 2014 to 2022, was arrested in February 2022 and extradited to the United States, where he faced charges for his alleged involvement in a drug trafficking network. During the trial, US prosecutors presented evidence linking him to drug cartels, arguing that he used his political power to facilitate narcotics trafficking in exchange for bribes.

The dismissed appeal sought to overturn the conviction based on claims of procedural errors and insufficient evidence, but the appeals court rejected these arguments, stating that the trial was fair and the evidence was compelling. This decision reinforces US efforts in combating drug trafficking in Central America and sends a clear message about holding corrupt leaders accountable.

Hernandez's case has had a significant impact on Honduran politics, setting a precedent for the extradition of former leaders on drug-related crimes. His conviction has been welcomed by anti-corruption groups but has also sparked debates over judicial sovereignty and bilateral relations between Honduras and the United States.