Former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez is set to receive a pardon from former President Donald Trump, following his conviction in March 2024 on drug trafficking and weapons charges. Hernandez, who was sentenced to 45 years in prison, has been appealing his conviction while incarcerated at the U.S. Penitentiary, Hazelton in West Virginia.
Trump announced his decision via social media, stating that Hernandez had been “treated very harshly and unfairly,” based on the opinions of individuals he respects. Hernandez served two terms as the leader of Honduras, a nation with a population of approximately 10 million people. His conviction stemmed from charges related to conspiring to import cocaine into the United States.
Hernandez’s attorney, Renato C. Stabile, expressed gratitude for Trump’s intervention, stating, “A great injustice has been righted and we are so hopeful for the future partnership of the United States and Honduras.” Stabile continued, thanking Trump for ensuring that “justice was served,” and looking forward to Hernandez’s return to his home country.
Political Implications in Honduras
Trump’s announcement comes at a critical time as Honduras prepares for its presidential elections. In a related message, Trump expressed support for Nasry “Tito” Asfura, the candidate for the conservative National Party. Asfura, who previously served as the mayor of Tegucigalpa, is making his second bid for the presidency. He has pledged to address the country’s pressing infrastructure needs.
On the other hand, Asfura faces allegations of embezzling public funds, which he has denied. The election is poised to be competitive, with other notable candidates such as Rixi Moncada of the incumbent democratic socialist Libre party, and Salvador Nasralla, a former television personality making his fourth presidential run with the Liberal Party.
In his social media post, Trump emphasized the stakes of the election, indicating that if Asfura does not win, Honduras could face challenges akin to those experienced in Venezuela under the leadership of Nicolás Maduro. Trump has taken a firm stance against Maduro, ramping up military presence in the Caribbean, including deploying the USS Gerald R. Ford, the Navy’s most advanced aircraft carrier.
U.S.-Honduras Relations
Outgoing President Xiomara Castro has maintained a leftist approach while managing a pragmatic relationship with the U.S. administration. She has hosted visits from key U.S. officials, including Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and General Laura Richardson, the former commander of U.S. Southern Command. Castro has navigated criticisms regarding her administration’s efficacy by cooperating with U.S. efforts, including the handling of deportations.
Argentina’s President Javier Milei, a supporter of Trump, publicly backed Asfura, stating that he represents the opposition to what he termed “leftist tyrants” in Honduras. The political developments in Honduras and the U.S. support for specific candidates highlight the complex interplay of international relations, governance, and domestic political agendas in the region.
As Honduras approaches the election, the ramifications of these endorsements and the potential pardon of Hernandez could significantly influence the nation’s political landscape and its relationship with the United States.
