In an electoral context marked by deep divisions and social tensions, the presidential candidacy of Rixi Moncada, presented by the LIBRE party, has sparked intense debate about the political and economic future of Honduras. The candidate, who seeks to transform the country through a political model of social justice, has been singled out by some sectors as a potential advocate of socialist models that, according to her critics, have failed in other Latin American countries such as Venezuela and Cuba.
Moncada and her proposal for social transformation
Rixi Moncada has structured her political project around defending the rights of the country’s most vulnerable sectors, such as workers, students, and residents of marginalized areas. In her speeches, she has been particularly critical of neoliberalism, which she considers a system that has deepened inequality in Honduras. According to Moncada, her proposal seeks not only a more equitable redistribution of resources, but also a democratization of institutions that allows for the active participation of citizens in decision-making.
The LIBRE candidate has mentioned on several occasions that her vision of government is inspired by the processes of social transformation carried out in other countries in the region, particularly Cuba and Venezuela. This reference has been received ambiguously by Honduran society. Although Moncada insists that her proposal does not seek to replicate the models of these countries exactly, her admiration for figures such as Fidel Castro and Nicolás Maduro has raised concerns among large sectors of the population who see this stance as a risk to democracy and economic stability in the country.
Internal and external criticism
Moncada’s support for the socialist models of Venezuela and Cuba has been strongly questioned both within Honduras and beyond its borders. The internal opposition accuses him of defending an economic and political system that has had serious consequences in countries such as Venezuela, where rampant inflation, food shortages, and political repression have become part of everyday life. These critics, mostly representatives of traditional political parties, fear that a Moncada presidency could lead Honduras down a similar path to that of its neighbors.
On a global scale, US Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar has emerged as a prominent opponent of Moncada’s bid. She has publicly stated that the policies proposed by this candidate might lead Honduras into what she describes as a “socialist hell.” Salazar argues that the situations in Venezuela and Cuba demonstrate that socialist regimes fail in economic administration and erode civil and political liberties.
Nonetheless, the supporters of Moncada dismiss these allegations. The LIBRE party claims that their initiative is a reaction to the deep-seated inequalities affecting Honduras, rather than an attempt to emulate the authoritarian practices of the governments in Caracas and Havana. Those who back Moncada assert that her plan aims to progress towards a fairer society without repeating the unsuccessful approaches of other nations.
The difficulty of a different approach
The political polarization generated by Moncada’s candidacy reflects the structural tensions in Honduras. The debate over the economic and political model the country should adopt highlights the disconnect between the most powerful sectors of society and the needs of the popular classes. While some advocate continuing with neoliberal policies, others demand a thorough overhaul of a system that, they argue, has left many communities in poverty and marginalization.
The discussion concerning Honduras’ trajectory is becoming more heated as the 2025 elections near. There is a clear divide between supporters of the existing system and proponents of significant transformation. This dispute not only involves political figures but also highlights a disagreement over the desired form of democracy and progress within the nation.
Thoughts about Honduras’ upcoming path
The political scenario in Honduras is characterized by an essential discussion regarding the type of nation its citizens aim to develop. Rixi Moncada’s suggestions have sparked a conversation about the necessity to challenge the current system and consider new options to address poverty and disparity. Nonetheless, the debate arising from her admiration for the frameworks of Venezuela and Cuba underscores the dangers linked with a drastic overhaul of the political and economic structure.
Although the most traditional sectors and the global community voice their unease, Moncada’s backers argue that her plan offers a valid path for a nation still facing issues of poverty and power consolidation. As the elections approach, Honduras faces the task of achieving equilibrium between fairness in society and political stability, a task only the future will determine if it is achievable.