Trump Promises Pardon for Former Honduran President

On Friday, President Donald Trump announced his intention to issue a “full and complete pardon” for former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández, who was found guilty in the U.S. on drug and weapon charges.

In the same announcement, he expressed support for Tito Azufura as a candidate in the upcoming presidential election in Honduras. This tweet was shared on Truth Social just days before the election.

Juan Orlando Hernández served two terms as president before being extradited to the U.S. in April 2022. According to the Department of Justice, he was accused of using his position to smuggle over 400 tons of cocaine into the country, aided by armed co-conspirators. Allegedly, he reaped millions from some of the most dangerous drug trafficking organizations.

In 2024, Hernández was sentenced to 45 years in prison, along with 60 months of supervised release.

Trump commented that “many people that I greatly respect” believe Hernández has not been treated fairly. He stated, “This should not be allowed to happen, especially at a time when Honduras is poised for great political and financial success after Tito Asufura won the election.”

Furthermore, Trump noted the United States has faith in Asufura and his policies. He also warned that financial support from the U.S. would cease if Asufura does not secure a win.

Tito Asufura, a member of Honduras’ conservative National Party, is in a competitive race against several other candidates, including Rixie Ramona Moncada Godoy and Salvador Nasralla.

Trump urged voters: “Please vote for Tito Asufura for President and congratulate Juan Orlando Hernández on his upcoming pardon. Let’s make Honduras great again!”