Hours out of office, Honduras ex-president gains immunity through regional post
January 27, 2022
9:08 PM CST
Last Updated 3 hours ago
Americas
By Gustavo Palencia
2 minute read
TEGUCIGALPA, Jan 27 (Reuters) - Outgoing Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez, who has been accused in U.S. court hearings of aiding drug traffickers, on Thursday was sworn in as a member of the Central American parliament, giving him immunity from prosecution in the region.
Hernandez formally joined the Guatemala-based regional body, called Parlacen, just a few hours after Xiomara Castro's inauguration as Honduran president, amid media speculation that he would be indicted on drug trafficking charges by the United States upon leaving office.
His term with Parlacen is due to last four years, in line with the organization's mandate to incorporate former presidents and vice presidents along with elected members, Parlacen said in a statement.
Parlacen affords members immunity from prosecution in Central America, though that immunity can be removed or suspended if requested by a member's home country.
More:
https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/hours-out-office-honduras-ex-president-gains-immunity-through-regional-post-2022-01-28/
