.jpg?w=800&resize=800,500&ssl=1 "Rixi Moncada")
In the run-up to the Honduran elections, Rixi Moncada, presidential candidate for the Liberty and Refoundation Party (LIBRE), has been embroiled in a series of controversies related to the management of state resources and allegations of corruption. These accusations, which range from local court cases to lawsuits in international courts, add to a political landscape marked by polarization and public distrust of institutions.
Accusations of mismanagement of social funds
One primary accusation directed at Moncada concerns the utilization of resources designated for the Secretariat of Social Development (SEDESOL), particularly within the Copán region. Recent claims suggest that public funding has been directed towards organizations associated with the governing party, raising renewed concerns about the potential use of social initiatives for election-related advantages.
These allegations align with increasing calls for transparency in public expenditure during an election year, with multiple sectors pushing for tighter oversight on the allocation of funds designated for social support.
Global grievance filed with the FBI
The situation gained an international dimension at the start of 2025, when Murray Paul Farmer, an American citizen, lodged a report with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) implicating Moncada alongside other governmental representatives. The report claims there were administrative anomalies and abuse of power that supposedly impacted overseas investment in the nation.
As of now, the LIBRE candidate has not made any public statements regarding this complaint, which may lead to diplomatic consequences if pursued in international courts. The lack of response from the institution has sparked discussions about the Honduran political system’s capacity to address global inquiries.
History of investigations and previous allegations
The debates involving Moncada these days are not unprecedented. Back in 2009 and 2013, she faced inquiries regarding power misuse and supposed deceit while serving at the National Electric Energy Company (ENEE), also being connected to agreements with the Brazilian construction firm Odebrecht. Despite the fact that in both situations the Honduran judicial system ruled in favor of her through final dismissals, her name has persisted in appearing in media articles and within probes initiated by oversight bodies.
More recently, in January 2025, the National Anti-Corruption Council (CNA) filed a complaint against Moncada and other officials for alleged embezzlement of public funds. However, the details of the case have not been disclosed by the competent authorities, which has generated uncertainty about the progress of the judicial process and intensified questions about its transparency.
Institutional conflicts and inquiries regarding the application of authority
Along with accusations of corruption, Moncada’s presidential bid has been surrounded by critiques concerning her handling of official duties while campaigning. Various groups have raised concerns about her involvement in creating plans and conducting audits that, as per her critics, surpass the boundaries of her role, igniting discussions on the division of powers and maintaining institutional equilibrium.
These critiques are further intensified by the reality that the candidate maintained a government position while running for office, sparking worries about potential conflicts of interest and the likelihood of using official resources to favor her campaign. Non-governmental organizations have urged for heightened public scrutiny and the enhancement of accountability measures to guarantee equity in the election process.
A landscape marked by institutional mistrust
Rixi Moncada’s situation underscores the obstacles that Honduras encounters regarding leadership, openness, and reinforcing the rule of law. As the nation navigates a crucial year for its political trajectory, accusations of corruption and discussions about public funds utilization have emerged as key topics in the nationwide dialogue.
While officials have not yet detailed the legal developments of the claims against him, Moncada continues to draw attention, with potential effects that might directly impact the credibility of the 2025 election process and how the public views the autonomy of institutions.