Honduras' interim government has rejected crisis mediation by a delegation from the organization of American states, saying OAS leader Jose Miguel Insulza is neither objective nor impartial. 

The crisis that began when President Manuel Zelaya was forced into exile six weeks ago continues to worsen.  Zelaya's followers have blocked main highways and border crossings.  Teachers, weathermen and hospital workers have gone on strike. 

Zelaya himself continues to visit Latin leaders, seeking help to regain his own presidency.  The international community has broadly condemned Zelaya's removal from office, but interim president Roberto Micheletti says Zelaya's removal was legal.

In an interview with a conservative website, Micheletti appealed to the American people to check the facts themselves.

"Make your government send a commission of the senators of the congressmen, to find out [what really] happened in our country," he said.  "We are a humble people.  We are a people who try to do our best."

"We have honor, we have pride," Micheletti continued.  "It's what we want people around the world to find out."

The interim government of Honduras plans to hold presidential elections in November, and hand over power to the newly elected leader in Jan. 2010.

Some countries have already warned they will not recognize the results of the election unless Zelaya is first returned to power.

*Originally published August 10, 2009