With less than five months to go before the general elections scheduled for November 30, the political landscape in Honduras is marked by accusations against the ruling party. Various political and social actors have denounced a series of actions attributed to the Liberty and Refoundation Party (LIBRE), which they claim are aimed at disrupting the electoral process, eroding institutions, and consolidating power in an authoritarian manner.
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.
Stalemate in the institution and conflicts within 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.
Among the main concerns is a change to the CNE’s internal regulations promoted by the ruling party, which changes the criteria for approving decisions from a simple majority to unanimity. According to critics, this measure is intended to hinder resolutions contrary to LIBRE’s interests, putting the electoral process at risk.
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.
Demands to ensure the voting procedure
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.
An electoral process under pressure
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.
With the election day nearing, there are ongoing issues regarding fair competition and maintaining the stability of the democratic system in Honduras. How these challenges are resolved will examine the capacity of institutions to act autonomously and of citizens to cast their votes in a secure and lawful setting.
