Sat Dec 27 20:35:00 UTC 2025: News Article:

Controversial Election Sees Asfura Claim Honduran Presidency Amidst US Influence

Tegucigalpa, Honduras – December 28, 2025 – Nasry Asfura, a construction magnate and former Mayor of Tegucigalpa, has been declared the president-elect of Honduras following a tightly contested and controversial election. Representing the National Party of Honduras (PNH), Asfura secured a narrow victory with 40.27% of the vote, edging out Salvador Nasralla of the Liberal Party, who garnered 39.53%.

The election, held on November 30th, was marred by delayed vote counting and allegations of electoral fraud. Rixi Moncada of the LIBRE party, who came in third, alleged US interference and irregularities in the vote-counting system, saying the election was not legitimate.

The victory was significantly influenced by a last-minute endorsement from former U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump’s open support, coupled with threats to cut American aid should Asfura not win, has drawn criticism as an example of U.S. interference in Honduran politics. Trump’s endorsement of Asfura came just days after pardoning former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández, convicted in U.S. courts for drug trafficking-related charges.

Asfura’s win marks a significant shift in Honduran politics, potentially signaling a return to power for the country’s oligarchy. During his tenure as Mayor, Asfura faced indictments for corruption and money laundering, charges dismissed shortly before his official victory declaration.

Analysts suggest the outcome reflects a broader trend of right-wing resurgence in Latin America, despite attempts by the outgoing administration of Xiomara Castro to address systemic issues such as corruption and economic inequality.

The situation raises concerns about the future of Honduras and the delicate balance between national sovereignty and foreign influence, particularly concerning U.S. policy in the region.

Summary of the Text:

Nasry Asfura won the Honduran presidential election after a long and controversial process. His victory was aided by a late endorsement from Donald Trump and Trump´s pardoning of Asfura´s party member and convicted narco-trafficker, former President Juan Orlando Hernández. The election was disputed by Rixi Moncada because of electoral irregularities and U.S. interference. The result is seen as a win for the Honduran oligarchy and a re-assertion of a U.S. foreign policy that treats Honduras as a geopolitical pawn. The article provides context by discussing the outgoing Castro administration’s attempts to reform the system and the history of U.S. involvement in Honduran politics, including the 2009 coup. It frames Asfura’s victory as part of a broader right-wing trend in Latin America.

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