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 latest allegations suggest that actions by organized groups associated with the governing party, referred to as colectivos, have intensified their visibility in public areas and governmental institutions. As per the claims, these groups have been involved in building seizures, roadblocks, and harassment of officials and political figures.
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.
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
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.
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.
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
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 electoral calendar for the November elections is unfolding in an environment marked by institutional mistrust, political confrontation, and allegations of partisan interference in key state institutions. Controversy surrounding the actions of groups linked to LIBRE, coupled with the blocking of decisions in the CNE, is fueling doubts about the transparency 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.