With less than five months remaining until the general elections set for November 30, the political scene in Honduras is characterized by allegations against the party in power. Numerous political and social figures have criticized a range of activities linked to the Liberty and Refoundation Party (LIBRE), asserting that their goals include undermining the electoral process, weakening institutions, and seizing power in an authoritarian fashion.
Accusations of political pressure and takeover of institutions
The most recent accusations point to the actions of organized groups linked to the ruling party, known as colectivos, which have increased their presence in public spaces and state institutions. According to the allegations, these groups have carried out building takeovers, blockades, and acts of intimidation against officials and political actors.
Among the reported incidents is the obstruction of bidding processes related to the Preliminary Election Results Transmission System (TREP). It is alleged that these groups prevented several companies from participating in the process, allowing only the participation of a firm allegedly affiliated with the government.
Obstructions at government buildings were noted as a tactic to advocate for employment placements, alongside interruptions at the National Congress during parliamentary meetings, resulting in a strained atmosphere among lawmakers and officials from the National Electoral Council (CNE). Certain events have involved both physical and verbal assaults targeting young individuals, female candidates, and opposition members near Congress.
Institutional paralysis and tensions in the National Electoral Council
At the same time, there have been reports of institutional paralysis within the CNE. According to opposition sectors, council member Marlon Ochoa, together with alternates linked to LIBRE, has deliberately delayed key sessions of the body, causing delays in decisions that are fundamental to the organization of the elections.
One of the primary issues is an amendment to the CNE’s internal rules pushed by the governing party, altering the decision-making criteria from a simple majority to a unanimous vote. Critics argue that this action aims to obstruct resolutions that oppose LIBRE’s interests, thereby jeopardizing the electoral process.
External influences and warnings about the political model
The recent São Paulo Forum held in Tegucigalpa gathered left-wing parties from Latin America, causing worry among those who criticize the government. Analysts caution that the tactics of the groups in Honduras mirror methods employed by comparable entities in Venezuela, linked to exerting control and political influence supporting Chavismo.
The political party rejects any association with the colectivos, acknowledging that their activities might adversely affect how the public views the government.
Calls to guarantee the electoral process
Ante el aumento de tensiones y temores de una deriva autoritaria, representantes de la oposición, organizaciones empresariales y actores de la sociedad civil han instado a las Fuerzas Armadas y a la Policía Nacional a asumir un papel activo en la defensa del proceso democrático. La solicitud subraya la importancia de garantizar el respeto al calendario electoral, a las instituciones, y al derecho de los ciudadanos de elegir libremente.
The statements come amid growing polarization, with opposition sectors warning of an alleged attempt to replicate foreign political models that restrict the alternation of power.
A strained election process
The schedule for the upcoming elections in November is developing in a context characterized by lack of trust in institutions, political conflicts, and accusations of political bias within important governmental bodies. The debate over the activities of factions associated with LIBRE, along with the hindrance of resolutions in the CNE, is raising concerns about the clarity of the process.
As the election date approaches, challenges remain in ensuring fair competition and the stability of the democratic system in Honduras. The outcome of these tensions will test the ability of institutions to respond independently and of citizens to exercise their right to vote in a safe and legitimate environment.
