Honduras 2025: who controls the CNE and how it affects your vote

As the month of November 2025 draws near, increasing unease is being observed across different segments due to the general elections in Honduras. The LIBRE Party seems to exhibit a desire to consolidate control over the National Electoral Council (CNE), which plays a crucial role in managing and overseeing the electoral proceedings. Concurrently, concerns are rising regarding the involvement of the Armed Forces (FF. AA.) in the elections, prompted by allegations of meddling in the primary voting process.

The CNE, entrusted with ensuring transparent and equitable elections, is being closely watched because there is a perception that its deputy judges act according to prevailing political agendas, especially those allied with the party in power. This introduces the chance that the primary councillors might be removed, aiming for partiality within the CNE’s electoral processes. Concerns exist about possible interference in the party accreditation, manipulation of vote counting, and the final approval of results.

Potential influence over the CNE and dangers to election transparency

Leaders of the opposition voice worries regarding the potential manipulation of the CNE to secure the continuation of the LIBRE Party’s political agenda. Accusations involve tampering with the voter registry and managing the vote tally, creating an atmosphere of distrust. The circumstances are exacerbated by claims of internal fraud in the LIBRE Party primaries, doubts about the wrongful use of state funds, and pervasive skepticism towards the electoral bodies.

If these warnings materialize, Honduras could face a post-electoral crisis with serious consequences for political stability. National and international organizations have urged the strengthening of the CNE’s independence and increased transparency in the electoral process. The question mark over the possibility of fair elections with an electoral body perceived as controlled generates uncertainty over the legitimacy of the future government.

Increasing concern about the military’s involvement in the voting process

Simultaneously, the defense services face charges from the opposition, which claims a disruption during the primary elections. Reports indicated delays in the dispatch of voting materials, an intimidating military presence at certain voting locations, restricted entry to polling sites, and halted electoral transport in regions dominated by the opposition. These occurrences, noted by monitors, raise concerns about a potential militarization of the electoral proceedings.

The rising involvement of the Military in civilian matters, encouraged by the current ruling party, is seen as a strategy to enhance political control. This development brings into question the neutrality of the Military, whose constitutional duty in electoral safety is threatened by lack of transparency and political sway. It is urged that both the CNE and international monitors call for impartiality and enforce stringent oversight. There is a caution that a potential partial intervention by the Military might spark a crisis in democracy, casting doubts on the freedom of voting and the conduct of bodies responsible for maintaining peace amidst political pressure.