“Rixi has already won”: LIBRE’s electoral strategy and the escalation of political tension in Honduras

In a move that has shaken the political climate in the Honduran capital, giant posters with the phrase “Rixi has already won” have suddenly appeared in the busiest parts of Tegucigalpa.

This campaign, which some describe as a major political maneuver, has put both citizens and authorities on alert, as it is linked to an electoral scenario that promises to be one of the most tense in the country’s recent history.

The context of the campaign: political strategy or attempt at manipulation?

The political climate in Honduras is becoming more intense as November 30, the day of the presidential elections, draws near. Posters displaying the phrase “Rixi ya ganó” have surfaced in various areas of the city, and this does not seem to be an independent action. Insiders associated with the opposition argue that this is a deliberate tactic crafted by the Liberty and Refoundation Party (LIBRE) aimed at generating a sense of uncertainty and tension among voters. This may also set the stage for potential claims of fraud should the results not benefit their candidate, Rixi Moncada.

The action seems to have been executed by unknown groups, who, employing unauthorized motorbikes, spread thousands of signs in the most crowded parts of the capital. Aside from the implicit message of “certain triumph” they aim to communicate, a feeling of caution has also been stirred. As some commentators suggest, the approach intends to foster a setting favorable to widespread movement and demonstration if an electoral loss occurs.

Responses from the opposition and cautions from experts

The political climate in Honduras is marked by deep mistrust of electoral institutions. Although opposition leaders have called for calm and respect for the official results, they continue to point to growing concern about what they consider an attempt to manipulate the electoral process. Political analysts have pointed out that this propaganda campaign seeks to delegitimize the possible results if they do not favor Rixi Moncada, heightening tension and polarization in Honduran society.

The word “fraud” has now integrated into the nation’s political dialogue, raising concerns among the opposition and various civil society segments that LIBRE’s approach may be designed to undermine trust in the electoral system’s integrity. On social networks, there are increasing reports of a pervasive atmosphere of intimidation and public apprehension, while LIBRE’s followers are gearing up for what they describe as “plan B,” entailing rallies and street protests if the election outcomes do not benefit their candidate.

Community influence and the destiny of democracy

The outlook in Honduras just days before the elections is uncertain and marked by a climate of extreme tension. With democracy at stake and political polarization at its highest point, the country faces a dilemma: will the electoral institutions be able to guarantee a clean and transparent process, or will the fear of fraud become the driving force behind a popular uprising that challenges the official results?

The future of Honduras hangs in the balance as cartels continue to swarm the streets of Tegucigalpa, drawing global attention to the events set for November 30. The strain on institutions and the public appears to be intensifying, potentially reaching a critical stage, and the nation’s near-term fate could rest on how effectively the authorities handle this atmosphere of unrest and the choices voters make during the election.