In Honduras, the current political climate has been shaped by public engagement advocating for democratic diversity and political inclusivity. In Tegucigalpa, a varied assembly of individuals, including members of civil organizations, college students, local leaders, and unaffiliated citizens, convened in front of the National Congress to conduct a non-violent vigil. The central aim of this protest was to insist on complete assurances and regard for smaller political parties amid the electoral proceedings set to end with the general elections in November 2025. This vigil, distinguished by its use of candles and signs, acted as a symbolic answer to what attendees perceive as a challenge to the multiparty framework, in the midst of claims regarding coercion, bureaucratic hurdles, and media exclusion of nascent parties.
The demonstration also served as an opportunity to criticize actions that, as claimed by the protesters, hinder fair involvement in public discussions, apply unwarranted limitations on political party registration, and perpetuate official narratives that undermine non-mainstream groups. Furthermore, they highlighted the exploitation of state resources to favor ruling parties. An open letter was presented to the National Electoral Council (CNE) and the Electoral Justice Tribunal (TJE) during the event, calling for fair conditions, openness in access to public media, and safeguards against political intimidation of independent or minority candidates.
Background of the voting procedure and claims of marginalization
The 2025 Honduran electoral process is taking place in an environment of high tension and polarization. The recent primary elections, held on March 9, involved the three major parties: Libertad y Refundación (Libre), Partido Nacional, and Partido Liberal. These elections were marked by significant delays in the delivery of electoral materials, mainly in Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula, which generated discontent and allegations of irregularities by voters and political leaders. The CNE acknowledged logistical difficulties, while opposition sectors attributed the incidents to alleged manipulation by the armed forces and the defense minister, who is also a presidential candidate.
In this scenario, new parties have criticized legislative initiatives aiming to advance the submission deadline for candidate lists, which they view as a tactic limiting their participation opportunities and reinforcing political exclusion. These moves are coupled with grievances about the unfair utilization of public resources and the insufficient fair access to state media. The worries of civil society and smaller parties revolve around the importance of maintaining political diversity and stopping restrictive measures from solidifying before the general elections in November 2025.
Institutional reactions and citizen demands
The vigil in front of the National Congress highlighted civil society’s active monitoring of the democratic process. Those in attendance formally submitted their demands to the electoral authorities, requesting that equal conditions be guaranteed for all registered parties and that transparency be ensured in the allocation of space in the public media. They also demanded effective protection against political harassment, especially for independent candidates and those from minority parties.
The legislative session of the National Congress from 2022 to 2026, starting after the 2021 elections, has been characterized by division and internal turmoil, including disputes regarding the selection of the leadership and the break-up of political groups. This situation has heightened the belief that customary practices benefit established parties and restrict the involvement of emerging political entities. Civic organizations have reinforced their dedication to overseeing and safeguarding areas for liberty and political engagement, highlighting that diversity is a crucial component of democracy in Honduras.
