Epilogue

Abstract

In 2009, President Manuel Zelaya was ousted by the military and politicians from his own political party because of abuse of power. Many stories circulated why Zelaya was driven out from executive power, among them that Zelaya was attempting to introduce a referendum for reelection. His ousting was seen as a form of reestablishing democracy. Hondurans were divided: those against the coup (not exactly backing Zelaya) and those that applauded the move (Golpistas versus Resistencia). The aftermath of the coup introduced a new wave of violence, mostly political violence aimed at certain groups such as the lesbian, gay, transgender and bisexual communities, members of youth associations, and activists. Social violence continued, as did organized crime. James Bosworth (2010) points out that organized crime benefitted greatly from the political turmoil caused by the coup. Roberto Michelleti, the de facto president, did not have any anticrime or antidrug strategy. Instead, all the government’s efforts focused on attempting to legitimize the coup and the de facto administration. Furthermore, the interim government fired many civil servants, who were perceived to be Zelaya backers (when, in fact, they were denouncing the coup), and dealt with various protests groups. In this setting of political instability, organized crime activity and violence increased.

Why do you want to come back to Honduras? This country is a real mess, and if you managed to leave, I recommend you don’t come back.

—email from a former schoolmate