U.S. federal prosecutors have accused Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández of conspiring with his brother and other top political figures to protect drug traffickers in exchange for campaign contributions. Tony Hernández, the president’s brother, was arrested last year in the United States for drug trafficking and weapon offenses. Former President Porfirio Lobo, who came to power following a U.S.-backed coup in 2009, is also accused of participating in the scheme. Prosecutors say President Hernández used $1.5 million in drug trafficking money to help him win the 2013 presidency. Juan Orlando Hernández has denied the accusations. Mass protests have been taking place for months against the Hernández government — which Hondurans say is ruled by corruption — as well as his plans to privatize healthcare, pensions and education.