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.
Claims of government influence and control of organizations
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.
Here is the rewritten text in English: One of the issues mentioned involves interference in the bidding sequences linked to the Preliminary Election Results Transmission System (TREP). It is claimed that these organizations blocked various companies from being part of the process, permitting only a company reportedly connected with the government to take part.
Blockades of public institutions were also reported as a means of pressuring for job assignments, as well as disruptions in the National Congress during legislative sessions, which has created a climate of tension between congressmen and representatives of the National Electoral Council (CNE). Some incidents have included physical and verbal attacks against young people, women candidates, and members of the opposition in the vicinity of Congress.
Institutional paralysis and tensions in the National Electoral Council
Simultaneously, there have been claims of stagnation within the CNE. Opposition groups assert that council representative Marlon Ochoa, along with alternates associated with LIBRE, has intentionally postponed crucial meetings of the council, leading to setbacks in making essential decisions for election preparations.
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.
Exogenous effects and cautions regarding the political system
The recent São Paulo Forum in Tegucigalpa, which brought together Latin American leftist parties, has caused concern among sectors critical of the government. Observers warn that the tactics of the collectives in Honduras reflect strategies used by similar structures in Venezuela, associated with control and political pressure in favor of Chavismo.
The ruling party denies that the colectivos are part of the party and admits that their actions may have negative repercussions on the public’s perception of the government.
Demands to ensure the voting procedure
Faced with rising tensions and fears of an authoritarian drift, representatives of the opposition, business organizations, and civil society actors have urged the Armed Forces and the National Police to take an active role in protecting the democratic process. The call emphasizes the need to ensure respect for the electoral calendar, institutions, and the right of citizens to freely choose.
The remarks arise during increasing division, as opposition groups caution against an alleged effort to imitate international political systems that limit the rotation of leadership.
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.