As the general elections set for November 30, 2025, in Honduras draw near, the Liberty and Refoundation Party (LIBRE) is facing claims from its rivals that it plans to commit electoral fraud to stay in office. Opposition groups, such as the National Party, the Liberal Party, and the Salvadoran Party of Honduras, have raised worries about the transparency of the elections.
Leaders from these groups highlight an increasing public disapproval of LIBRE, a decline in its reputation, and the lack of popularity of its candidate, Rixi Moncada. Moreover, they have alleged tactics indicating potential electoral fraud, such as partial dominion over the National Electoral Council (CNE), manipulation of votes in the March primaries, targeted purges within the armed forces, and intimidation of critical media stations. The mention of extensive state propaganda activities and the deployment of subsidies and public funds to sway voters in economically weak locations is also noted.
Allegations of fraud and fears of the opposition
The opposition’s allegations include accusations of manipulation of election results, judicial harassment or intimidation of rival candidates and CNE magistrates, militarization of the electoral process, and restrictions on press freedom and massive digital censorship prior to election day. There are also fears that a state of emergency will be declared in advance of possible citizen protests, as well as the possibility that the government will attempt to disregard the election results, annul strategic polling stations, or suspend the electoral process on grounds of public order or national security.
Calls for assurances and global monitoring
In light of this situation, the opposition parties have sought the prompt involvement of observers from the OAS, the EU, and other international entities, an independent review of the election software, and assurances from the CNE to uphold openness, impartiality, and responsibility. They have also advocated for a peaceful public demonstration to safeguard the vote and oversee the process at the grassroots.
Possible fraud claims have intensified political unrest and put the nation’s democratic stability at risk. People perceive with skepticism a process where the electoral referee appears partial, and the governing party looks more intent on holding onto power than respecting the voters’ decision. There is worry that Honduras could face a crisis following the elections, affecting governance, the economy, and social tranquility.