Packed Public Meeting against Honduras Coup

Over 100 people packed an emergency public meeting in London last night (July 8) against the recent illegal coup in Honduras, which was addressed by representatives of four Latin and Central American governments. Speaking at the meeting, Venezuelan Ambassador Samuel Moncada called for "a stronger response from the US" to the coup, which is continuing its "military aid and military personnel" in Honduras, saying "there should "be a blockade of Honduras" that "forces them to give power back to the people."

Cuban Ambassador Rene Mujica Cantelar referred to the coups in Latin America of the past when "imperialist powers and national oligarchies kept the people oppressed and preserved the privileges of a tiny minority," adding that in Honduras we now have an "attempt to bring us back to those dark days of military dictatorship."

Bolivian Ambassador Maria Beatriz Souviron, condemned the "the breaking of democracy with military force," arguing that around the world "now is the moment to raise our voice against the attack on democracy."

Nicaraguan Chargée d'Affaires (A.I.) Alicia Sandino condemned the coup as a reaction against the progressive "fight for social justice and liberty" taking place across Latin Americas which "after many years has achieved some steps."

Colin Burgon MP warned that if we allowed the coup to consolidate itself "then just as Cuba has been an inspiration to the progressive left, Honduras will become an example to the right."

Steve Hart, Unite the Union London and Eastern Regional Secretary, brought greetings from Britain's largest trade union to the meeting and called for the broadest possible campaign against the coup.

Francisco Dominguez, VSC Secretary, argued that the "crime" of President Zelaya in Honduras was "to raise the minimum wage by 60%; provide free school emails, pensions for the elderly and reduce the price of public transport" concluded the meeting by calling for increased pressure on US and UK politicians to stand firm against the government put in power by the coup.

Photo by Vigilio Ponce

Press Release by Venezuela Solidarity Campaign