Military Coup Against Manuel Zelaya in Honduras

June 28th, 2009

June 28th, 2009

Military Coup Against Manuel Zelaya in Honduras
How Long Ago?

15 years, 8 months, 15 days ago

Location

Honduras

Category

Politics & Government

People
  • Manuel Zelaya
  • Roberto Micheletti
  • Hugo Chávez
  • Honduran military leaders
Links & References
Tags

Military Coup Against Manuel Zelaya in Honduras

Manuel Zelaya, the President of Honduras, was ousted in a military coup following a failed attempt to hold a referendum aimed at rewriting the Honduran Constitution. The coup was executed by the military and supported by various sectors of society who opposed Zelaya's growing authoritarianism. This event marked the onset of a profound constitutional crisis that would lead to increased political tension and instability in the region.

Manuel Zelaya was removed from power by the military.

The coup sparked widespread protests throughout Honduras.

Roberto Micheletti was installed as interim president.

Zelaya's attempt to alter the Constitution led to conflict.

What Happened?

The ousting of Manuel Zelaya marked a crucial turning point in Honduran politics, instigated by his push for a referendum to alter the Constitution. Zelaya, who had been in office since 2006, sought to extend term limits and allow potential re-election, actions that drew considerable opposition. His initiative was interpreted by critics as an attempt to strengthen his grip on power. The military's response to his plans was swift; on the morning of June 28, Zelaya was forcibly removed from his home and flown to Costa Rica, an act executed by the military under the guise of legal authority. Amidst the political turmoil, the Honduran Supreme Court issued an order for Zelaya's arrest, claiming he had violated the Constitution. The coup was met with both support and condemnation, causing significant division within the country and drawing international reactions ranging from applause to protests against the military's actions.Following the coup, Roberto Micheletti was appointed as the interim president, leading to significant upheaval in the Honduran political sphere. The situation escalated with mass protests by Zelaya's supporters and repression from the military and police forces. The constitutional crisis deepened, with Zelaya attempting to return to power through diplomatic efforts and grassroots mobilization. The instability caused significant economic turmoil and diplomatic isolation for Honduras within the international community, as the Organization of American States (OAS) and the United Nations condemned the military's actions and called for restoration of democracy. The crisis persisted until early 2010, contributing to a complex situation of governance and civil rights challenges in Honduras.

Why Does it Matter?

The ousting of Manuel Zelaya is significant as it underscores the fragility of democratic institutions in Honduras and highlights the role of the military in national politics. This event initiated a series of political crises and mass protests, shaping subsequent years of governance and civil society dynamics in the country. The coup raised questions about the legitimacy of political power and the challenges faced by nations grappling with authoritarian tendencies.

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