Sun Nov 30 14:35:40 UTC 2025: Honduras Heads to the Polls Amid Fraud Concerns and US Backing of Right-Wing Candidate
Tegucigalpa, Honduras – Hondurans are casting their votes today to elect a new president in a highly contested race marked by accusations of potential voter fraud and significant political polarization. Polls opened at 7 am local time (13:00 GMT) and will remain open for 10 hours, with initial results expected late Sunday night.
The election pits three leading candidates against each other: Rixi Moncada of the ruling leftist LIBRE party, Nasry Asfura of the right-wing National Party, and Salvador Nasralla of the centrist Liberal Party. Most polls indicate a very close race among the three contenders, further fueling concerns about potential disputes over the outcome. In addition to the presidency, voters will also elect members of Congress, mayors, and other public officials.
Allegations of planned voter fraud have been exchanged between the top candidates, creating an atmosphere of distrust towards electoral authorities. Moncada has even suggested she might not recognize the official results. The Attorney General’s Office, aligned with the LIBRE party, has accused opposition parties of plotting fraud, accusations the opposition denies.
Adding to the tension, audio recordings, allegedly featuring a National Party politician discussing plans to influence the election with a military officer, have surfaced. The National Party claims these recordings were fabricated using artificial intelligence.
The United States has taken a keen interest in the election. While US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau warned of swift and decisive action against anyone undermining the democratic process, former US President Donald Trump has publicly backed Asfura, stating that continued US aid would be contingent on his victory.
The Organization of American States (OAS) has expressed concerns about the electoral process, with member states calling for free and fair elections.
The election outcome will determine whether Honduras continues on its current path of increased public investment and social spending under the leadership of incumbent President Xiomara Castro, who is limited to one term. Alternatively, a victory for the Liberal or National parties would signal a shift towards a more conservative agenda.
In a nation grappling with poverty, violence, and historical political instability, the outcome of this election holds significant implications for the future of Honduras.
First Piper 