In a recent interview, former Honduras first lady Ana García de Hernández revealed her decision to run for the presidency in an effort to defend Honduras' reputation and highlight what she perceives as an injustice against her husband, Juan Orlando Hernández. Her husband, a former president of Honduras, was recently convicted on drug trafficking charges in a U.S. court.
García de Hernández vehemently defended her husband's innocence and criticized the U.S. government for tarnishing not only her family but the entire nation of Honduras. She expressed her dismay at the portrayal of Honduras as a 'narco-state' and emphasized her desire to speak out against the perceived injustice.
Following her husband's conviction and extradition, García de Hernández announced her presidential bid, seeking the nomination of the National party, her husband's political party. Despite facing allegations that her candidacy is an attempt to shield herself from potential prosecution, García de Hernández maintained her innocence and stated that she has not been charged with any crimes.
While acknowledging the possibility of future investigations, García de Hernández asserted her commitment to remaining in Honduras and facing any legal challenges that may arise. She highlighted the lack of concrete evidence presented in her husband's trial and criticized the reliance on testimony from alleged drug traffickers seeking revenge.
Notably, Hernández's presidency was described by U.S. prosecutors as 'state-sponsored drug trafficking,' a characterization that García de Hernández vehemently refuted. She pointed to her husband's past collaborations with U.S. administrations in combating drug trafficking and questioned the credibility of the accusations against him.
As Honduras prepares for national elections in November 2025, García de Hernández's presidential bid has garnered support from within the National party and across the country. Despite facing challenges and skepticism, she remains resolute in her decision to enter the political arena and defend her family's legacy.
For more news on Latin America and the Caribbean, visit AP's coverage.
