Honduras: decisive phase for the preliminary hearing against Juan Orlando Hernández

The preliminary hearing against the former president of Honduras, Juan Orlando Hernández, has entered its decisive phase.

The judge specializing in organized crime and corruption will announce on September 1st at 1.30pm local time whether to order the indictment or definitive dismissal for the crimes of money laundering and fraud. The Public Prosecutor maintained the charges, requesting the formal opening of the trial and the precautionary measure of detention in prison, believing that the evidence demonstrates the involvement of the former head of state.

The defense instead rejected the charges, requesting a definitive acquittal. Lawyers argue that the management of public funds at the center of the investigation was the responsibility of the executive branch and not the legislative branch.

At the time of the events investigated, in fact, Hernández held the position of president of the National Congress and was not yet at the helm of the country. The expected resolution will determine whether the case will continue its process within the Honduran judicial system or whether it will be definitively closed.