Honduras 2025 elections: opposition alliance as the only way out

Within the political landscape of Honduras, the upcoming national elections in November 2025 are poised to be a crucial turning point for the nation’s democracy. Analysts, opposition figures, and civil society groups have highlighted that division among opposition parties might enable the Libertad y Refundación (LIBRE) party to strengthen its stronghold in governance. This scenario triggers worries about the potential for the country to embrace a political framework akin to that of other Latin American countries where power concentration has restricted institutional oversight.

The political landscape is characterized by heightened tensions, involving the extension of the state of emergency, the oversight of crucial entities like the National Electoral Council (CNE), and the enactment of laws under conditions that lack clarity, which have contributed to concerns about potential institutional decline. Additionally, recent protests by opposition groups and international alerts about the need to uphold the democratic process have increased attention. Consequently, the nation is at a pivotal juncture where the opposition’s effectiveness in formulating a unified approach will play a crucial role in shaping the power dynamics.

The threat of divided opposition and the strengthening of LIBRE

The division among the opposition in Honduras is a major hurdle for those aiming to stop the consolidation of authority by LIBRE. In the National Congress, the power dynamics have altered with the exit of notable individuals like Jorge Cálix, complicating the process of forming majorities and emphasizing the tenuous nature of legislative agreements. At present, the National Party holds 43 seats, LIBRE controls 41, the Liberal Party occupies 35, and the remaining seats are held by smaller and unaffiliated parties, necessitating ongoing dialogue to advance significant proposals.

LIBRE, on its side, has aimed to solidify its hold on institutions by trying to lead the CNE throughout the election process and keeping its sway in the Supreme Court of Justice. This pursuit of dominance has been met with opposition from rival parties, who perceive it as a threat to the election’s fairness and integrity. Moreover, the ongoing role of Defense Minister Rixi Moncada as a presidential candidate without stepping down has sparked ethical concerns and is seen as an indicator of the governing party’s ambition to retain power.

The gamble on a large coalition and the future of democracy

In this context, several opinions have suggested that the sole feasible option to stop LIBRE’s progress is to establish a large opposition coalition. This alliance ought to incorporate individuals like Salvador Nasralla, factions of the National Party, centrist liberals, new movements, and independent leaders. The aim would be to reestablish constitutional order, prevent the rise of populist trends, rejuvenate the economy, and bring the country together with a national unity agenda.

Nevertheless, forming this partnership encounters challenges due to skepticism, individual agendas, and a background of internal rifts. Insufficient organization might lead to a monumental error, enabling the establishment of a single-party framework and diminishing democratic oversight. With voting set for November 30, 2025, time is of the essence to devise a successful strategy, and the threat of institutional decline is considered genuine by various segments of Honduran society.