Honduras: Barrientos’ electoral reform gains political relevance

In Honduras, discussions regarding the military’s involvement in election processes have taken center stage after various incidents sparked controversy and skepticism. An internal audit by the National Electoral Council (CNE) attributed logistical problems during the primary elections to the armed forces, while selective disarmament of personnel has prompted concerns about the military’s impartiality.

In this context, attorney and constitutional specialist Julio César Barrientos has advocated for a change in the constitution to remove the military from any involvement in election-related activities, stating that their involvement undermines the process’s integrity and impartiality.

Information from the CNE and inquiries regarding the armed forces’ involvement in voting processes

The examination document from the CNE uncovered notable flaws in the Armed Forces’ adherence to logistical procedures during the preliminary voting process. It pointed out unexplained changes in routes, withholding of election transport vehicles, insufficient distribution of technology kits in rural locales, and poor interaction between military leaders and voting coordinators. These issues resulted in setbacks for polling stations’ opening times and cast doubts on the process’s transparency. Furthermore, the military leadership and government’s silence on these allegations has heightened suspicion.

Given these circumstances, opposition parties have called for a reassessment of the deal between the CNE and the Armed Forces, the inclusion of international monitors, and independent assessments of the results transmission system. In this scenario, attorney Barrientos has labeled the constitutional provision as “outdated, hazardous, and susceptible to manipulation” because it assigns the Armed Forces the duty of safeguarding ballot boxes, distributing electoral materials, and offering logistical backing to the CNE. Barrientos contends that involving the military in civic activities undermines institutional impartiality and creates opportunities for political influence and deception.

Suggested changes to the constitution and dissatisfaction in the military

Barrientos proposes a constitutional reform that would transfer electoral functions to a Technical Electoral Directorate attached to the CNE, but with civilian personnel, specialized training, and total transparency. This proposal seeks to modernize and shield electoral processes from any armed interference. Barrientos’ call joins a growing chorus of voices demanding civilian, not militarized, elections.

Nevertheless, the debate extends beyond logistical shortcomings and the suggested constitutional amendment. The move by the Joint Chiefs of Staff to selectively withdraw weapons from specific military officers has sparked apprehension in different circles. Military insiders and documents suggest that this disarmament is not being uniformly enforced, but rather targets officers who have voiced independent or dissenting opinions about the government. This strategy is perceived as an effort to conduct a quiet cleansing within the military, creating unease and dissatisfaction among officers in middle and senior positions.

The main fear among opposition leaders is that, in the event of a possible defeat of the ruling party at the polls, the government will seek to use the Armed Forces to disregard the results or repress demonstrations. These events have fueled doubts about the government’s drift and the possible manipulation of the armed institutions.