_-_copia.jpeg?w=800&resize=800,500&ssl=1 "Honduran elections")
In Honduras, the current political climate has been shaped by public engagement advocating for democratic diversity and political inclusivity. In Tegucigalpa, a varied assembly of individuals, including members of civil organizations, college students, local leaders, and unaffiliated citizens, convened in front of the National Congress to conduct a non-violent vigil. The central aim of this protest was to insist on complete assurances and regard for smaller political parties amid the electoral proceedings set to end with the general elections in November 2025. This vigil, distinguished by its use of candles and signs, acted as a symbolic answer to what attendees perceive as a challenge to the multiparty framework, in the midst of claims regarding coercion, bureaucratic hurdles, and media exclusion of nascent parties.
The demonstration also served as an opportunity to criticize actions that, as claimed by the protesters, hinder fair involvement in public discussions, apply unwarranted limitations on political party registration, and perpetuate official narratives that undermine non-mainstream groups. Furthermore, they highlighted the exploitation of state resources to favor ruling parties. An open letter was presented to the National Electoral Council (CNE) and the Electoral Justice Tribunal (TJE) during the event, calling for fair conditions, openness in access to public media, and safeguards against political intimidation of independent or minority candidates.
Background of the voting procedure and claims of marginalization
The 2025 elections in Honduras are unfolding in a setting characterized by significant tension and division. The primary elections, conducted on March 9, included participation from the country’s three main parties: Libertad y Refundación (Libre), Partido Nacional, and Partido Liberal. These elections experienced notable setbacks in the distribution of electoral materials, especially in Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula, which led to dissatisfaction and claims of irregularities from both voters and political figures. The CNE admitted to logistical issues, whereas opposing groups claimed that these events were due to supposed interference by the military and the defense minister, who is also running for president.
In this scenario, new political groups have criticized legislative drafts aimed at advancing the deadline for presenting candidate lists, viewing this as a tactic that limits their opportunities for involvement and reinforces political exclusion. These measures are accompanied by grievances regarding the uneven utilization of public resources and the limited access to state-controlled media. Civil society and smaller parties are worried about maintaining political diversity and stopping restrictive methods from being established before the general elections in November 2025.
Responses from institutions and requests from the public
The gathering held outside the National Congress underscored the active involvement of civil society in overseeing the democratic proceedings. The attendees officially presented their requests to the electoral officials, calling for a guarantee of fair conditions for all enrolled parties and for clarity in the distribution of airtime in state media. They further insisted on adequate safeguards against political intimidation, particularly for independent contenders and those from smaller parties.
The legislative session of the National Congress from 2022 to 2026, starting after the 2021 elections, has been characterized by division and internal turmoil, including disputes regarding the selection of the leadership and the break-up of political groups. This situation has heightened the belief that customary practices benefit established parties and restrict the involvement of emerging political entities. Civic organizations have reinforced their dedication to overseeing and safeguarding areas for liberty and political engagement, highlighting that diversity is a crucial component of democracy in Honduras.
