U.S. Revokes Visa of Honduran Congressman Julio Meléndez

Honduran congressman Julio Meléndez confirmed Friday that the United States government has revoked his visa. Meléndez, who serves as a substitute deputy for Carlenton Dávila representing the Social Democrat Innovation and Unity Party (Pinu-SD) in the National Congress, received notification of the decision in recent days.

Meléndez, who had held a U.S. visa since he was 13 years old and renewed it in February of this year, expressed surprise at the revocation. He reported that U.S. consular agents declined to provide any explanation for the decision, stating that the U.S. government is not obligated to offer reasons.

The legislator, who represents Francisco Morazán, publicly opposes proposed energy reforms that would divide the state-owned National Electric Energy Company (ENEE) into three parts, allowing public-private companies to control operations. While he stated he does not expect the visa revocation to be retaliation for his stance on these reforms, the timing has raised questions.

Meléndez's visa was reportedly revoked during a recent family trip, adding a personal dimension to the political implications of the decision. The congressman's confirmation of the U.S. action brings attention to the diplomatic relationship and potential political undercurrents between Honduras and the United States.

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the U.S. government is not obligated to give explanations about it.