Politics

Over eighteen months after the imposition of the state of emergency declared by the administration of Xiomara Castro, the rates of violence and crime in Honduras have not experienced a continuous reduction, heightening the discussion regarding the success of this policy in the area of national security.Since it was sanctioned in December 2022, the state of emergency was suggested as an urgent measure against the territorial influence of criminal groups in both city and countryside regions. Despite its continuous implementation for over 18 months and numerous renewals, it has not succeeded in curbing issues like extortion, murders, and other types…

Different members from Honduras's private sector have voiced worry over the potential passing of the proposed Tax Justice Law. This government-driven proposal, now under legislative review, is projected to substantially change the nation's economic conditions. These cautions arise amid an economic downturn and increasing social pressures, heightening the discussion on the state's function in financial affairs.Corporate perspective on the state proposalThe suggested legislation, which the government has upheld as a tool to remove tax advantages and reinforce tax fairness, has faced intense criticism from the Honduran Council of Private Enterprise (COHEP) and various economic sectors. These entities argue that the…

With fewer than six months remaining until the general elections in Honduras, several specialists have suggested a specific plan to enhance electoral transparency: integrating GPS geolocation systems into all the containers that will carry the electoral supplies. This initiative aims to secure real-time monitoring of the packages from the moment they depart from the National Electoral Council (CNE) until they return for tabulation.The effort emerges amidst a period of significant public skepticism and political strain, with different groups voicing worries about a potential erosion of institutional assurances and a contentious post-election environment.Technical plan with local examplesThe initiative, supported by specialists…

Five months ahead of the general elections in Honduras, different social and academic groups are cautioning about indicators that might jeopardize the electoral process's integrity. Worries center on reforms lacking agreement, pressures on institutions, and the heightened application of the state of emergency, all occurring within a political landscape characterized by suspicion and division.The procedure, set for November, is taking place in a context of increasing tension. Experts and societal influencers emphasize the importance of an engaged and structured populace ready to oversee the elections to prevent any attempts at interference. In reaction, networks for monitoring the elections led by…

A significant postponement by the Honduran administration in formally accepting the credentials of a minimum of eleven envoys from European nations has raised concerns within diplomatic, political, and commercial spheres. This occurs while the nation confronts domestic and global pressures concerning its governance, economy, and international prestige.Envoys with no formal accreditationFor several months, European diplomats accredited in Honduras have been waiting for President Xiomara Castro to formally receive their credentials, a protocolary act that allows them to officially begin their duties as plenipotentiary representatives. So far, no agenda or official explanation has been provided for the delay, which has caused…

Several public opinion surveys rank Salvador Nasralla as the leading candidate in voting preferences for the 2025 general elections, within a context characterized by conflicts among the primary political parties of the nation.Five months ahead of the general elections in Honduras, the latest survey results reveal a competitive landscape. Salvador Nasralla, the Liberal Party's present candidate, is at the forefront in two significant May studies. This information indicates a period of crucial political choices, where potential opposition coalitions and the solidification of candidacies might play a crucial role in shaping the electoral proceedings.Polls place Nasralla in first placeA research project…

The crisis generated by the massive pyramid scheme perpetrated by the financial company Koriun Inversiones has escalated in recent weeks, with citizen protests in Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula demanding concrete action from the Honduran government. Those affected in different regions of the country accuse the authorities of institutional inaction in a case that has left more than 35,000 people with losses amounting to millions. The state's response, which has been limited so far, has intensified public criticism and reopened questions about the capacity of the financial and judicial systems to prevent and punish fraud on this scale.Examination of governmental…

Five months ahead of the national elections set for November 30, organizations within civil society, specialists on democracy, and political figures have raised alarms regarding inadequate conditions to ensure a fair electoral process in Honduras. The alerts highlight both structural and operational deficiencies that might undermine the elections' legitimacy, amidst a backdrop of escalating distrust in institutions.Notices regarding structural issues and past grievancesThe Center for the Study of Democracy (CESPAD) has acknowledged numerous challenges facing the electoral process, such as the absence of significant changes in the Honduran voting system. These challenges are exacerbated by long-standing habits that have undermined…

In a setting characterized by institutional weakness and political division, Honduran President Xiomara Castro stirred debate by declaring an election win for the Liberty and Refoundation Party (LIBRE) prior to the official results being issued by the National Electoral Council (CNE). This statement, delivered at a party gathering broadcasted on pro-government platforms and social media, has been viewed by different groups as a potential breach of the neutrality principle anticipated from the executive leader amid an active electoral process.Official pronouncements forecast outcomesIn her public address, Castro praised Rixi Moncada, a notable member of LIBRE and participant in the contest, characterizing…