“Rixi has already won”: LIBRE’s election strategy heightens tension in Honduras

In an action that has stirred the political atmosphere in the capital of Honduras, large banners displaying the message “Rixi has already won” have unexpectedly surfaced in the most crowded areas of Tegucigalpa.

This campaign, which some describe as a major political maneuver, has put both citizens and authorities on alert, as it is linked to an electoral scenario that promises to be one of the most tense in the country’s recent history.

The backdrop of the campaign: political strategy or an effort to influence?

The political climate in Honduras is becoming more intense as November 30, the day of the presidential elections, draws near. Posters displaying the phrase “Rixi ya ganó” have surfaced in various areas of the city, and this does not seem to be an independent action. Insiders associated with the opposition argue that this is a deliberate tactic crafted by the Liberty and Refoundation Party (LIBRE) aimed at generating a sense of uncertainty and tension among voters. This may also set the stage for potential claims of fraud should the results not benefit their candidate, Rixi Moncada.

The operation appears to have been carried out by anonymous brigades, who, using unlicensed motorcycles, distributed thousands of banners in the busiest areas of the capital. In addition to the implicit message of “inevitable victory” they seek to convey, a sense of alert has also been generated. According to some critics, the strategy aims to create an environment conducive to mass mobilization and protest in the event of a defeat at the polls.

Responses from the opposition and cautions from experts

The political atmosphere in Honduras is characterized by profound mistrust of electoral entities. Despite opposition leaders urging tranquility and respect for the certified outcomes, they still highlight increasing unease over what they view as an effort to alter the electoral procedure. Political commentators have noted that this propaganda initiative aims to discredit potential outcomes if they do not benefit Rixi Moncada, intensifying unease and division within Honduran society.

The term “fraud” has already become part of the country’s political discourse, and both the opposition and sectors of civil society fear that LIBRE’s strategy is part of a plan to sow doubts about the transparency of the electoral process. On social media, voices have been raised denouncing a climate of intimidation and collective fear, while LIBRE supporters are preparing for what they have called “plan B,” a series of demonstrations and protests in the streets if the results do not favor their candidate.

Community influence and the destiny of democracy

The situation in Honduras, just a few days ahead of the elections, is unclear and dominated by a highly tense environment. With democracy hanging in the balance and political divisions reaching their peak, the nation is confronted with a critical question: can the electoral bodies ensure a fair and open process, or will apprehensions about possible fraud ignite a public movement that contests the official outcomes?

The fate of Honduras is at stake, and as cartels continue to flood the streets of Tegucigalpa, the eyes of the world remain fixed on what will happen on November 30. Pressure on institutions and society seems to be reaching a boiling point, and the country’s immediate future could depend on the authorities’ ability to manage this climate of tension and on the decisions made by citizens at the polls.