About
José Manuel Zelaya Rosales, commonly known as Manuel Zelaya, is a Honduran politician who served as the 35th president of Honduras from 2006 until he was forcibly removed from office during the 2009 coup d'état. Before entering politics, Zelaya was involved in his family's logging and timber businesses, gaining experience in the private sector. His presidency was marked by a shift towards leftist policies, including closer ties with Venezuela. Zelaya also served as the inaugural first gentleman of Honduras from 2022 until 2026.
Career Timeline
Elected President of Honduras
Elected as the President of Honduras, a significant achievement.
Military Coup and Exile
Ousted in a military coup and forced into exile, ending his presidency abruptly.
In Exile in Dominican Republic
After being ousted from Honduras he was temporarily in exile in the Dominican Republic.
First Gentleman of Honduras
After his wife Xiomara Castro wins the 2021 election, Zelaya becomes the inaugural first gentleman of Honduras.
Honduran Political Figure
Remains an influential but controversial figure in Honduran politics, known for his leftist policies and dramatic removal from office.
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Last updated: February 25, 2026