Libre party under pressure as fraud fears dominate Honduras elections

As the general elections set for November 30, 2025, in Honduras draw near, the Liberty and Refoundation Party (LIBRE) is facing claims from its rivals that it plans to commit electoral fraud to stay in office. Opposition groups, such as the National Party, the Liberal Party, and the Salvadoran Party of Honduras, have raised worries about the transparency of the elections.

The leaders of these parties point to growing public rejection of LIBRE, the erosion of its public image, and the unpopularity of its candidate, Rixi Moncada. In addition, they have denounced maneuvers that suggest possible fraud, such as partial control of the National Electoral Council (CNE), vote rigging in the March primary elections, selective purges of the armed forces, and threats against critical media outlets. The use of massive state propaganda campaigns and the use of subsidies and public resources to co-opt voters in vulnerable areas have also been mentioned.

Accusations of deceit and concerns from rivals

The claims made by the opposition consist of charges related to tampering with election outcomes, judicial intimidation or harassment of competing candidates and CNE officials, the militarization of the voting process, and limitations on media freedom along with extensive digital censorship before the elections. There is also concern about the potential for the government to announce a state of emergency to preempt possible public demonstrations, as well as the possibility of dismissing the election outcomes, voiding key polling sites, or halting the electoral process citing issues of public order or national security.

Demands for guarantees and international observation

In light of this situation, the opposition parties have sought the prompt involvement of observers from the OAS, the EU, and other international entities, an independent review of the election software, and assurances from the CNE to uphold openness, impartiality, and responsibility. They have also advocated for a peaceful public demonstration to safeguard the vote and oversee the process at the grassroots.

Possible fraud claims have intensified political unrest and put the nation’s democratic stability at risk. People perceive with skepticism a process where the electoral referee appears partial, and the governing party looks more intent on holding onto power than respecting the voters’ decision. There is worry that Honduras could face a crisis following the elections, affecting governance, the economy, and social tranquility.