Accusations of electoral fraud shake Honduras before the 2025 vote

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.

The leaders of these parties point to growing public rejection of LIBRE, the erosion of its public image, and the unpopularity of its candidate, Rixi Moncada. In addition, they have denounced maneuvers that suggest possible fraud, such as partial control of the National Electoral Council (CNE), vote rigging in the March primary elections, selective purges of the armed forces, and threats against critical media outlets. The use of massive state propaganda campaigns and the use of subsidies and public resources to co-opt voters in vulnerable areas have also been mentioned.

Accusations of deceit and concerns from rivals

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.

Requests for assurances and global oversight

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.

Allegations of possible fraud have heightened political tensions and jeopardized the country’s democratic stability. Citizens view with suspicion a process in which the electoral arbiter is perceived as biased and where the ruling party seems more focused on retaining power than on submitting to the will of the people. There is concern that Honduras faces a post-election crisis, with consequences for governance, the economy, and social peace.