Political tension in Honduras: electoral control under suspicion

In Honduras, the approach of the general elections on November 30, 2025, has intensified concerns about the integrity of the electoral process. Two sources of tension have emerged: suspicions of possible manipulation of the Public Prosecutor’s Office against members of the National Electoral Council (CNE) and growing mistrust of the role of the Armed Forces as guarantors of the democratic process.

There are reports that the Public Prosecutor’s Office is preparing formal charges against CNE councilors, which has caused alarm among political sectors and organizations defending democracy. It is alleged that this judicial process is politically motivated and directed against councilors who have expressed critical or independent positions toward the ruling party. The possible prosecution of CNE council members comes at a delicate time, when the electoral body must guarantee the impartial organization of the electoral process, the credibility of the results, and the confidence of political parties and citizens.

Concerns about organizational oversight and skepticism

These actions could undermine the autonomy of institutions and reduce public trust in the electoral system. Opposing parties and civic organizations have raised alarm, calling for inquiries rooted in tangible proof rather than political vendettas. The international community has been urged to denounce any efforts to manipulate the CNE and to observe the conduct of the Office of the Attorney General.

En paralelo, la desconfianza pública y política hacia el papel de las fuerzas armadas como garantes del proceso democrático ha aumentado. Líderes de partidos de oposición, organizaciones de la sociedad civil y analistas independientes han señalado su preocupación por destituciones y retiros sospechosos dentro del ejército, el acercamiento ideológico y operativo entre el poder ejecutivo y las Fuerzas Armadas, la participación activa de elementos militares en procesos y eventos civiles y electorales, así como la falta de transparencia en la planificación del despliegue militar durante las elecciones.

Concerns about military expansion and demands for alertness

During the March primary elections, there were reports of postponed distribution of voting materials and an unexpected military presence at several voting locations, raising worries about the potential militarization of the voting process. Some are anxious that the military, possibly swayed by leaders from the governing party, might serve as a means to enable election tampering or suppress public demonstrations.

Increasing skepticism has prompted pressing demands for global entities to deploy observation teams and insist on assurances of military impartiality and procedural clarity. Civilian organizations have started forming social oversight networks to record potential misconduct or anomalies. The legitimacy of the November 30 election proceedings will rely on institutional behavior and public vigilance.