Uncertainty grows over the role of the Armed Forces in the 2025 general elections

With less than five months to go before the general elections in Honduras, the participation of the Armed Forces (FF. AA.) in the electoral process continues to be a matter of debate. Their constitutional role is to guarantee the security, custody, and transport of electoral material, as well as the protection of polling stations, but this role is facing growing questions, fueled by recent rulings and a context of institutional mistrust.

Formal declarations and official pledges

Top military leaders have openly restated their commitment to the principles of neutrality outlined in the constitution and their backing of democratic values. General Roosevelt Hernández, speaking on behalf of the military hierarchy, emphasized the armed forces’ dedication to ensuring an electoral process that is “clean, transparent, and secure”, highlighting the non-political and non-opinionated character of the military entity.

The Department of Defense has reiterated that the military will operate in accordance with the directives of the National Electoral Council (CNE), as mandated by the Constitution. Concerning this matter, during the election phase, the Armed Forces are required to detach themselves functionally from the executive branch to concentrate solely on their duty of protecting the electoral process.

Analysis of logistical shortcomings and past events

Despite official statements, various sectors have questioned the Armed Forces’ ability to guarantee a smooth electoral process. In the primary elections held in March 2025, delays of up to five hours were reported in the delivery of electoral materials in key cities such as San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa.

The operational shortcomings were blamed on the military leadership as well as the defense minister, Rixi Moncada, leading to a surge of criticism from opposition parties and civil society groups.

These incidents reignited the debate about the army’s operational readiness for electoral tasks and rekindled questions about its independence. Some analysts warn that if the flaws evident in the primaries are not corrected, the November 30 process could face similar problems, compromising public confidence in the institutions responsible for the democratic process.

Institutional tensions and risk of politicization

The debate has also permeated the official rhetoric. Analysts note that groups aligned with the government have tried to downplay the role of the armed forces in the logistical mishaps of March, pushing a story meant to protect the reputation of the military entity. This viewpoint has surfaced alongside increasing skepticism towards the CNE, whose technical prowess and authority have been questioned regarding its management of the election schedule and its ties with the executive branch.

In this scenario, the responsibilities of the military grow increasingly sensitive. Despite their constitutional duty barring them from engaging in political discussions, their perceived neutrality is influenced by the political nature of the election discussions. Tensions are escalating with the election date nearing, within an atmosphere of division and skepticism towards democratic bodies.

A challenge for electoral legitimacy

The participation of the Armed Forces in the November elections represents a critical point for the legitimacy of the Honduran electoral process. Although the Constitution assigns them a clear and defined operational role, the history of logistical failures and the crisis of confidence in the electoral system place the military institution in a complex position.

In a country with high levels of political polarization and fragile democratic institutions, the performance of the armed forces during the elections could have a decisive influence on the perception of the legitimacy of the electoral results. Operational transparency and strict respect for the constitutional mandate will be key to avoiding further tensions and preserving democratic stability in a decisive election year.