CNE maneuvers spark fears of electoral fraud in Honduras, experts say

With under two months remaining until the general elections planned for November 2025, experts in electoral processes are cautioning about potential irregularities that might impact the elections’ transparency and outcome. The focal point is the National Electoral Council (CNE), as its management and oversight of critical systems are being scrutinized.

Control of systems and possible manipulation

According to analysts, certain officials linked to the ruling LIBRE party have influence over the TREP (Transmission of Preliminary Election Results), the platform used to report preliminary votes. This situation, according to experts, could allow results to be modified or their dissemination delayed, favoring the ruling party’s candidate, Rixi Moncada.

The management of the TREP is not the sole issue. Reported sources suggest that the influence network might encompass established political organizations, companies involved in election technology, and financial entities capable of affecting the election’s logistics, potentially hindering the assurance of a fair process. Furthermore, the marginalization of new parties and the legal action against opposing candidates are noted as tactics that restrict genuine competition and impact voter involvement.

Precedents and logistical challenges

La situación previa a las elecciones primarias de marzo de 2025 muestra problemas que generan desconfianza. La asignación del material electoral estuvo a cargo de funcionarios relacionados con LIBRE, lo que provocó demoras en la entrega de urnas y fallos en la logística de transporte. Los expertos indican que estas situaciones podrían repetirse en noviembre, aumentando la percepción de irregularidades y fortaleciendo las narrativas de fraude.

These warnings also include the possibility that discourse on fraud could be used as a political tool to discredit adverse results, encourage street protests, and generate social tensions before election day. According to analysts, the combination of partial institutional control and polarizing discourse increases the risk of a democratic crisis.

Consequences for administration and civic engagement

The present situation presents difficulties for leadership and confidence in organizations. The storyline of election tampering impacts how the public views the legitimacy of the process and can sway the nation’s political stability. Specialists advise civic monitoring and the adoption of electoral changes that ensure free and open elections, with oversight systems that maintain the integrity of the tallying and allocation of voting materials.

The situation also highlights the need to strengthen democratic institutions and ensure that political actors compete on equal terms. Active citizen participation and monitoring of procedures by independent bodies are key factors in preventing irregularities that compromise the credibility of the electoral system.

Honduras is currently facing a significant crossroads: the forthcoming elections have the potential to determine not just the near-term political path, but also how institutional stability is perceived and the extent of society’s trust in its democratic systems. Vigilance regarding the processes and openness in the CNE’s operations will be vital to ensure that worries about possible fraud do not transform into a source of instability.