Honduras analyzes electoral modernization promoted by Barrientos

In Honduras, discussions about the involvement of the military in elections have become significant after various incidents sparked debate and skepticism. An internal review by the National Electoral Council (CNE) criticized the armed forces for operational shortcomings during the primary elections, and selective disarmament of officers has led to doubts concerning the impartiality of the military.

Against this backdrop, lawyer and constitutional expert Julio César Barrientos has called for constitutional reform to exclude the Armed Forces from all electoral functions, arguing that their participation compromises the transparency and fairness of the process.

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.

In view of this situation, opposition parties have demanded a review of the agreement between the CNE and the Armed Forces, the presence of international observers, and external audits of the results transmission system. In this context, lawyer Barrientos has described as “anachronistic, dangerous, and manipulable” the constitutional provision that grants the Armed Forces responsibility for guarding ballot boxes, distributing electoral material, and providing logistical support to the CNE. Barrientos argues that military participation in civic processes compromises institutional neutrality and opens the door to political pressure and fraud.

Suggested changes to the constitution and military dissatisfaction

Barrientos suggests a change to the constitution to move election duties to a Technical Electoral Directorate connected to the CNE. This body would consist of civilian staff, receive specialized training, and operate with complete transparency. This initiative aims to update and protect electoral processes from any military influence. Barrientos’ proposal aligns with the increasing demand for elections managed by civilians rather than the military.

However, the debate extends beyond issues with logistics and the suggested constitutional amendment. The action taken by the Joint Chiefs of Staff to specifically disarm certain officers within the Armed Forces has sparked worries in different areas. Based on information from military sources and reports, this disarmament is not being implemented uniformly, but is targeted at officers who have shown independent or critical viewpoints regarding the governing party. This action has been viewed as a covert tactic to eliminate dissent within the military, resulting in unease and dissatisfaction among officers of middle and upper ranks.

The primary concern of opposition figures is that, if the ruling party faces defeat in the elections, the government might attempt to employ the military to ignore the results or suppress protests. These incidents have raised suspicions about the government’s direction and the potential misuse of military entities.