With only five months remaining until the general elections set for November 30, the Libre Party’s presidential contender, Rixi Moncada, has generated a series of responses in Honduras following her severe criticism of both the Catholic Church and evangelical churches, two of the most powerful entities in the nation. Her remarks, positioning her in direct opposition to these religious groups, might result in significant electoral consequences amid a strained political and social environment.
Claims by Moncada: a campaign targeting the churches
In several public statements, Moncada accused religious leaders of being mere mouthpieces for the “ten oligarchic families” who, according to her, control power in the country. The presidential candidate claimed that both priests and pastors are manipulating their congregations to promote a political discourse against the current government, which, in her view, undermines democracy and fosters social polarization.
Este ataque a las iglesias, que históricamente han gozado de gran respeto entre el pueblo hondureño, provocó una rápida reacción por parte de los líderes religiosos. El Comité de Obispos de la Iglesia Católica y varias organizaciones evangélicas convocaron a una manifestación en apoyo de la democracia y la paz, advirtiendo que tales declaraciones no solo intensifican la división política, sino que también alejan a Moncada de una posible victoria en las elecciones presidenciales.
Reactions and warnings: the electoral cost of challenging the churches
Political analysts have pointed out that Moncada’s words could have devastating effects on his election campaign.
According to Leonardo Pineda, an expert in public opinion, “messing with the faith of the people is electoral suicide,” as around 85 to 90% of Hondurans identify as Christian, and the majority continue to attend church. Pineda emphasizes that in a country where trust in politicians is at very low levels, religious sectors remain one of the most credible sources for citizens.
This area, traditionally crucial for winning elections in Honduras, might turn into a significant challenge for Moncada. In this context, several political analysts have concurred that confronting the churches directly during an election year is not just an ill-advised approach, but also a risky maneuver, as it distances a substantial segment of voters.
Stress on social networks and obstacles for Moncada’s election effort
The discussion has spread across social platforms and news outlets, with clips of Moncada’s remarks frequently circulating in conversations. The anger of users is evident, as numerous individuals perceive the clash with the churches as a frantic attempt by a campaign that is trying to find its path. The backlash on social platforms and in different media sources is on par with the backing from churches, who have come together to denounce what they see as a “politics of division and antagonism.”
Political marketing and public opinion experts warn that the damage Moncada has caused to her image could be irreversible. In a country where the religious base has been a fundamental pillar in the electoral successes of other parties, calls for unity by religious leaders seem to have left the candidate without allies at a critical moment.
A strategic shift or the inevitable downfall of LIBRE?
As the elections approach, a common concern is whether Moncada can adjust her approach or if her disputes with religious institutions will determine the outcome of her campaign. The harshest critics argue that it is improbable for the scenario to change, as the division caused by her remarks might have permanently distanced crucial parts of her prospective electorate.
In the end, the electoral contest in November appears to be a clash not just between political entities, but also involving the religious convictions of the Honduran populace and the tactics adopted by a party that seems to have selected a perilous route. As the influence of the churches gathers momentum against him, Moncada might have placed LIBRE in a challenging position that could turn out to be crucial during the voting process.
