Civil Society Calls on US as Honduras Faces Electoral Strain

Less than a week before the 2025 general elections, various civil society organizations warned that the conduct of the process faces challenges that could affect its credibility. They pointed out that persistent polarization, differences over electoral regulations, and controversies surrounding the selection of electoral authorities have increased public attention on the country’s institutional strength.

Constitutional directives and inter-branch governmental friction

The declarations highlighted that upholding constitutional mandates is essential for preserving public trust. They pointed out that the National Congress, the Attorney General’s Office, the Armed Forces, and the Executive Branch, along with individuals associated with the LIBRE party, bear the responsibility to operate strictly within legal boundaries.

The groups emphasized that military involvement ought to be confined to its logistical capacity, as stipulated by the Constitution, rather than taking on roles perceived as partisan. Furthermore, they highlighted that both the legislative and executive branches should refrain from issuing early declarations regarding election outcomes, given that such pronouncements could ignite societal unrest in an environment already characterized by political discord.

At the same time, they emphasized that the actions of the National Electoral Council (CNE) will be crucial. The hope is that it will uphold principles of autonomy, openness, and promptness throughout every phase of the procedure to guarantee integrity in the management of the polls.

Autonomy of election monitoring

The organizations considered that national and international observation can play an important role in strengthening the legitimacy of the process. They referred to missions such as those of the European Union and the Organization of American States, whose assessments can contribute to strengthening institutional accountability.

This assistance, they stated, would strengthen the image of impartiality during a period of heightened political rivalry and public calls for assurances regarding ballot integrity. The involvement of domestic observers was also emphasized as a beneficial element in connecting electoral oversight with local communities and expanding civic engagement.

Global discussions and regional pledges

In their appeal to the United States, the organizations requested “constructive” support that would be coordinated with national authorities, political sectors, and civil society. They indicated that the objective is to protect the transparency and legitimacy of the process, under the principles of the Inter-American Democratic Charter.

They asserted that a respectful adherence to democratic principles has the potential to ensure the 2025 elections accurately represent the will of the Honduran voters, even within a challenging political landscape. Furthermore, they noted that international discourse could serve as a tool to promote the fulfillment of institutional duties and diminish motivations for actions that undermine public trust.

The joint statement was signed by representatives of organizations with a regional and hemispheric presence, including the Seattle International Foundation (SIF), Hope Border Institute, Latin America Working Group (LAWG), Chicago Religious Leadership Network on Latin America (CRLN), Alianza Americas, Due Process of Law Foundation (DPLF), Institute for Women in Migration (IMUMI), Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA), and Unitarian Universalist Service Committee (UUSC).

The situation outlined by these entities brings to light the strains associated with the 2025 election cycle and emphasizes the imperative for Honduran bodies to operate within defined parameters. Both domestic and global observers are keenly watching elements like political steadiness, the functioning of governmental branches, and public involvement, as these will collectively shape how electoral fairness is perceived during a pivotal period for the nation’s democratic administration.