Honduras’ political scene is at a crucial moment, with multiple groups from civil society, opposition politicians, and journalists conveying their strong worries about what they see as an authoritarian shift by the LIBRE Party, particularly regarding the next general elections in November 2025.
Concerns have been sparked in the Honduran community due to a range of governmental measures indicating a troubling decline in democratic values. These measures span from the restriction of basic civil rights, vital for complete civic engagement, to the establishment of systems aiming to impose increased influence over media outlets, key figures in shaping public discourse and overseeing authority.
Additionally, there is a view that there is an intentional plan to strengthen control over different government bodies, which may undermine the division of powers and, consequently, the essential checks and balances in a robust democracy. The coming together of these tendencies has led to an environment of doubt and apprehension among several groups, who perceive these measures as part of a trajectory that might result in an authoritarian-like regime.
Risks to basic liberties: demonstrations, media, and military
Among the measures that have sparked debate is the supposed penalization of public protest, as there have been accusations regarding the introduction of laws and orders enabling the use of force and legal action against citizens participating in demonstrations, even those that are peaceful. In this context, there have been accounts of unjustified detentions of community leaders, excessive police operations, and threats of legal proceedings against social groups that criticize the government.
On the other hand, concern has been expressed about freedom of the press. Critical journalists and media outlets have been the target of smear campaigns, restricted access to public information, fiscal, judicial and advertising pressures, and acts of violence and physical intimidation. Organizations such as Reporters Without Borders and the Inter-American Press Association have expressed their concern about the setback in press freedom in the country.
Another controversial issue lies in the conditions within the military ranks. Allegations have surfaced of a purported targeted removal of personnel who do not align with the governing party’s policies, alongside the partial decommissioning or reassignment of key roles to leaders favorably aligned with the current administration. These developments have sparked worries about the potential politicization of the armed forces.
The Honduran democratic dilemma
The moves targeting the media and members of civil society seek to mute opposing voices, hinting at a larger plan to break down democratic checks and bolster dominant authority.
These issues have sparked worry regarding the deployment of a plan that, as noted by experts and adversarial political figures, aims to strengthen the influence of the LIBRE Party within government bodies through the takeover of institutions, changes to the constitution, suppression of dissent and independent media, and leveraging governmental resources for political favors. Focus has been placed on the effort to dominate the National Electoral Council, the appointment of individuals associated with the party’s extreme faction, the pushes for constitutional amendments, the establishment of alternative structures to state bodies, and moving away from relations with the United States.
In the year 2025, the general elections are regarded as a vital turning point for the future of democracy in Honduras. The people must choose between enabling the establishment of an authoritarian regime or supporting the preservation of democratic systems.