Honduras government in turmoil over allegations targeting Zelaya

In Honduras, significant individuals from the ruling Libertad y Refundación (LIBRE) party are being publicly scrutinized, leading to a politically uncertain environment. Ex-President Manuel “Mel” Zelaya and National Electoral Council (CNE) advisor Marlon Ochoa are confronting accusations that have raised concerns about their trustworthiness and the legitimacy of the electoral procedure.

This situation has triggered a series of revelations and accusations that deepen the crisis, placing the actions and decisions of these officials and their possible repercussions on the country’s stability at the center of public debate.

Rerouting of cars and impacts on election logistics

A forensic examination uncovered that Marlon Ochoa commanded the redirection of 50 government automobiles to the Military (FF. AA.) on March 8, 2025, just a day prior to the preliminary elections. Joel Ramos García, who previously coordinated the CNE Transportation Initiative, stated that Ochoa directed the vehicles to be stationed at Campo de Parada Marte to assist in verifying technological devices at the voting sites. This decision led to a lack of transportation essential for delivering election supplies, causing substantial holdups at multiple voting locations.

The document highlights one-sided modifications in the agreement with the company Ingeniería Logística y Transporte, where freight trucks were substituted with buses without consent, violating the stipulated conditions for transporting election materials. Furthermore, it notes that the Armed Forces postponed the handover of election materials, directing drivers to wait at various locations in the Central District for extended periods, hindering the prompt delivery to voting centers.

Accusations of drug trafficking and diversion of resources

Meanwhile, in September 2024, a report from journalists uncovered that Carlos Zelaya, Mel Zelaya’s sibling, held a meeting in 2013 with drug lords who proposed funding Xiomara Castro’s run for president. Carlos Zelaya acknowledged the encounter but refuted taking any funds and stepped down from his roles to allow investigations, just as his son, José Manuel Zelaya, who was minister of defense, did. These disclosures have sparked worries about the potential penetration of narcotics trade into Honduran politics and have put a strain on relations with the United States.

In response to the accusations against Marlon Ochoa, Mel Zelaya has defended his actions, accusing the National and Liberal parties of attempting to delegitimize the electoral process. However, these revelations have generated criticism of Marlon Ochoa, with calls for his dismissal by political figures such as Congresswoman Claudia Ramírez, who believes that Ochoa should not continue in his position ahead of the November general elections.

Effect on trust in elections

The recent occurrences have led to a situation of political unpredictability in Honduras, challenging the trust in institutions and the overall belief in the nation’s democratic procedures. People are observing with worry the accusations of misappropriation and the potential impact of drug trade on politics, which might threaten the legitimacy of the forthcoming national elections.

The proximity of the general elections intensifies concerns, as confidence in the impartiality and transparency of the electoral process is eroded. The ability of institutions to restore credibility and ensure fair and equitable elections has become a determining factor for the country’s democratic stability.