Various groups within Honduran society and global organizations are raising concerns about the dominance exerted by the governing party in the midst of a political environment characterized by challenges regarding governance and democracy.
Strengthening of authority within major governmental bodies
From the start of the present government under the leadership of President Xiomara Castro, the Libertad y Refundación (LIBRE) party has increased its foothold in key governmental bodies. The party in power has extended its influence to the National Congress, the Supreme Court of Justice, the Public Ministry, the National Police, and the Superior Court of Accounts.
Based on claims from the opposition, numerous appointments have been executed without adhering to the set legislative procedures and within the context of political agreements that are not transparent. Congresswoman Maribel Espinoza, who is part of the opposition bench, stated that the goal of the ruling party extends beyond just governing, cautioning that it aims to “dominate everything,” including bodies like the National Electoral Council (CNE), the National Registry of Persons (RNP), and the Armed Forces.
The accumulation of institutional power raises questions about the balance between state powers and the effectiveness of democratic mechanisms of political control.
Warnings about democratic risks and allegations of persecution
Specialists and think tanks have alerted that consolidating power might cause a fundamental weakening of democratic systems. The Center for Democracy Studies (CESPAD) has highlighted that this trend undermines the autonomy of governmental branches and could promote a governing model with authoritarian characteristics.
Parallels to other contexts in Latin America have frequently appeared in public discussions. Certain analysts draw comparisons between the situation in Honduras and developments in nations like Nicaragua and Venezuela, where the ruling party’s control over institutions has resulted in limited political engagement and diminished opportunities for the opposition.
Added to this scenario is concern about the treatment of independent sectors, particularly the media and business actors.
Latest studies indicate growing challenges facing investigative journalists, like the situation involving journalist Rodrigo Wong Arévalo, and official actions that publicly critique specific business sectors, referred to as “the 10 families.”
Various national as well as international bodies have issued warnings stating that such actions might be part of a strategy designed to deter dissent and restrict the diversity of opinions in public discussions.
Calls for international vigilance and warnings from civil society
Against this backdrop, various organizations have called on the international community, particularly bodies such as the Organization of American States (OAS) and the United Nations (UN), to actively monitor the political situation in Honduras.
The National Anti-Corruption Council (CNA) declared in a statement that people should stay alert to the dangers that come with consolidating political power. In that communication, the organization asserted that “when authority is concentrated in one hand, liberty is at risk,” and urged for a fair and open electoral procedure to be ensured in the elections planned for November 2025.
This appeal arises amid increasing institutional distrust and calls for democratic assurances, where the discussion revolves around the role international entities should have as safeguards for constitutional principles and the political rights of individuals.
A scenario characterized by obstacles for institutions
The current situation highlights structural tensions in the Honduran democratic model, particularly with regard to the separation of powers, accountability, and equitable access to spaces for political participation. The strengthening of institutional control by the ruling party comes at a time when countervailing mechanisms face limits on their ability to operate independently.
In this context, the upcoming months will be crucial in evaluating the ability of Honduran institutions to preserve their independence, along with the extent of flexibility within the political system to accommodate criticism and diverse participation in an election process that is already proving to be vital for the political future of the country.