A group of Honduran community leaders in Los Angeles are demanding refunds from the consulate for more than two thousand compatriots who were unable to attend appointments at mobile consulates in 2023 due to the new appointment payment system. The leaders appeared at the consulate to demand the return of money and to stop the implementation of the new system.
The head of the Honduran diplomatic mission in Los Angeles acknowledged that there were discrepancies in the procedures carried out at the mobile consulates, but assured that refunds for appointments that were not made have already begun to be processed. However, representatives of Honduran organizations in the United States are stating that nearly $120,000 in refunds still need to be made to affected individuals.
The community leaders are calling for a postponement of the pilot test for the new appointment system in Los Angeles until the issue of refunds is resolved. They are also suggesting measures such as having bank card terminals at consular offices for immediate refunds and offering multiple payment options to accommodate all individuals.
The Honduran community in Los Angeles has come together to express their concerns and suggestions to the government, urging them to prioritize the protection and rights of Honduran emigrants. They are requesting a written response from the government before the implementation of the new system and are emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability in handling consular services.
The community leaders are hopeful that their voices will be heard and that the government will take necessary actions to address their concerns and ensure the fair treatment of all Honduran emigrants in Los Angeles.