Experts warn of risk of election fraud in Honduras

With under two months remaining until the general elections planned for November 2025, experts in electoral processes have raised alarms regarding potential actions by the National Electoral Council (CNE) that might benefit the ruling party’s contender, Rixi Moncada. Analysts indicate that LIBRE party members, along with CNE officials, possess the capability to manipulate essential systems like the TREP (Transmission of Preliminary Election Results), thereby impacting the election results.

Impactful networks during the election cycle

The risk of manipulation is not limited to the CNE. Various experts point to the involvement of technology companies linked to the implementation of electoral systems, as well as the possible involvement of certain economic groups, in a structure aimed at guaranteeing predetermined results. Added to this scenario is the systematic exclusion of emerging parties and the judicialization of dissident candidates, strategies that could limit effective competition and centralize control over the electorate.

Incidents during the March primary elections, in which the distribution of electoral material was handled by officials with ties to LIBRE, revealed logistical problems and significant delays. These failures generated mistrust among the public and raised concerns about the transparency of the upcoming elections.

Impact on the credibility of institutions

Experts warn that the narrative of electoral fraud could be used as a political tool to discredit adverse results or justify street protests, which would increase social and political polarization ahead of the elections. Citizen oversight and demands for electoral system reforms are essential measures to prevent the country from repeating cycles of controversy and institutional conflict.

The involvement of the CNE in managing essential systems like the TREP, alongside the participation of political and economic figures, creates a situation where the perception of openness will be crucial for trust in democratic institutions. Specialists indicate that the trustworthiness of the electoral process relies heavily on the controls and audits operating in an impartial and verifiable way.

Public scrutiny and involvement

In light of this situation, civil society and political parties have a central role to play in overseeing compliance with the law and the integrity of the process. The coordination of observation mechanisms and attention to judicial proceedings related to dissident candidates are considered key steps in ensuring free and fair elections.

The political scene in Honduras reveals conflicts characterized by the interplay of influential figures, new political movements, and voting systems. The nation’s capacity to uphold democratic stability will rely on the efficiency of institutional checks and the proactive involvement of the citizenry in monitoring the electoral proceedings.