Honduran President Asfura Defends Record Amidst Drought, Job Concerns

Honduran President Nasry Asfura has staunchly defended his government's management, urging a long-term perspective for evaluating its successes and dismissing immediate criticisms.

"We are not gold coins to please everyone," Asfura stated, asserting that external critiques would not derail his administration's objectives. He emphasized teamwork, noting that "things are not done alone, they are done in a team." The president suggested a comprehensive evaluation should wait until January 27, 2030, when citizens can judge the administration's impact.

In response to the severe drought emergency, Asfura announced that the government is preparing substantial food assistance for affected families. Plans include distributing between 80,000 and 100,000 sacks of food, each weighing around 80 pounds, to families in the hardest-hit municipalities. The national emergency agency, Copeco, is coordinating the distribution, while the government also pursues long-term solutions like building reservoirs and drilling wells. Initial efforts are being funded by domestic resources, though support from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is also being explored.

Regarding employment concerns, particularly in Choloma where job losses have been reported, Asfura pledged to investigate. However, he expressed optimism, stating that most companies he has visited intend to expand their operations. He highlighted the government's efforts to facilitate investment and job creation, acknowledging that labor market recovery is a gradual process.

Asfura also addressed accusations of overpricing related to the program aimed at reducing surgical backlogs. He refuted these claims, inviting the public to review cost information on the official portal. He reported that 367 operations have already been completed, with 500 individuals being contacted for evaluations and subsequent surgeries through a trust fund. He assured that relevant deputy ministers have reported to Congress and will continue to provide accountability on the program's progress.