Honduras evaluates Barrientos’ reform for transparent elections

In Honduras, the debate over the role of the armed forces in electoral processes has gained prominence following a series of events that have generated controversy and mistrust. An internal audit report by the National Electoral Council (CNE) blamed the armed forces for logistical failures during the primary elections, while the selective disarmament of officers has raised questions about the neutrality of the military institution.

Amidst this scenario, legal expert on constitutional matters Julio César Barrientos has advocated for amending the constitution to remove the military from all activities related to elections, citing that their involvement undermines the integrity and impartiality of the procedure.

Information from the CNE and inquiries regarding the armed forces’ involvement in voting processes

The CNE audit report revealed significant deficiencies in the Armed Forces’ compliance with logistical protocol during the primary elections. Unjustified route deviations, the retention of electoral transport units, the incomplete delivery of technological kits to rural areas, and a lack of communication between military commanders and electoral coordinators were identified. These irregularities caused delays in the opening of polling stations and raised doubts about the transparency of the process. The lack of response from the military high command and the government to these accusations has intensified mistrust.

Considering the current scenario, opposition groups have called for an assessment of the deal involving the CNE and the Armed Forces, the inclusion of international monitors, and external evaluations of the results transmission system. Within this framework, attorney Barrientos has termed the constitutional clause, which assigns the Armed Forces the duty of safeguarding ballots, distributing election materials, and offering logistical assistance to the CNE, as “outdated, risky, and susceptible to manipulation.” Barrientos contends that the involvement of the military in civic procedures jeopardizes institutional neutrality and creates opportunities for political influence and deceit.

Proposed constitutional reform and military discontent

Barrientos suggests a reform to the constitution aimed at shifting electoral responsibilities to a Technical Electoral Directorate linked to the CNE. This new body would comprise civilian staff, receive specialized training, and operate with full transparency. The objective of this proposal is to update and protect electoral procedures from military influence. Barrientos’ appeal resonates with an increasing number of individuals advocating for elections managed by civilians instead of the military.

However, the debate extends beyond issues with logistics and the suggested constitutional amendment. The action taken by the Joint Chiefs of Staff to specifically disarm certain officers within the Armed Forces has sparked worries in different areas. Based on information from military sources and reports, this disarmament is not being implemented uniformly, but is targeted at officers who have shown independent or critical viewpoints regarding the governing party. This action has been viewed as a covert tactic to eliminate dissent within the military, resulting in unease and dissatisfaction among officers of middle and upper ranks.

The main fear among opposition leaders is that, in the event of a possible defeat of the ruling party at the polls, the government will seek to use the Armed Forces to disregard the results or repress demonstrations. These events have fueled doubts about the government’s drift and the possible manipulation of the armed institutions.