Juan Orlando Hernández claims political persecution after judge withdraws from case

Former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández said he is being subjected to political persecution after the judge originally assigned to hear the fraud and money‑laundering case declared himself incompetent. The judge argued that the constitutional requirements for the Supreme Court of Justice to continue the proceedings were no longer met, opening the possibility that the case could be transferred to the court handling organized crime, environment and corruption. Hernández posted on social media questioning the abrupt change and its motives. His defense filed a petition to keep the case before the Supreme Court, while the judicial spokesperson Carlos Silva said the same judge will decide whether to uphold or reverse his decision.

The controversy centers on whether the legal process is being influenced by political considerations, with Hernández insisting the move is part of a broader campaign against him.