The bilateral relationship between the United States and Honduras has faced significant challenges, particularly under the Trump administration, which views President Xiomara Castro’s government unfavorably due to its ties with China and support for leftist regimes. The upcoming primary elections on March 9 indicate a highly polarized political landscape with notable candidates from multiple parties struggling with corruption allegations. Additionally, U.S. cooperation in supporting electoral processes has significantly diminished, raising concerns about election integrity amid rising violence and organized crime.
The relationship between the United States and Honduras has deteriorated, particularly under the Trump administration. Many Republican officials regard President Xiomara Castro’s administration as a threat due to its alignments with China and support for regimes in Nicaragua and Venezuela. Secretary of State Marco Rubio notably omitted Honduras from his Central America tour in February 2025, signaling disapproval of the current government.
During the first term of the Trump administration, a strong diplomatic bond existed with former President Juan Orlando Hernández, who was later extradited to the U.S. in 2022 and convicted for drug trafficking charges. The trial unveiled electoral fraud allegations from the 2017 elections. However, Trump associate Roger Stone suggested that Hernández was targeted for opposing what he characterized as an authoritarian socialist government in Honduras, casting doubt on future U.S.-Honduran relations, even as President Castro agrees to cooperate on immigration issues and uphold extradition treaties.
As primary elections approach on March 9, 2025, various political parties in Honduras exhibit significant internal tensions. The Liberty and Refoundation Party (LIBRE) has nominated Defense Secretary Rixi Moncada and Congressman Rasel Tomé, the latter facing U.S. sanctions for corrupt activities. The National Party (PN), identified as far-right, features candidates like Ana García, spouse of Hernández, and Nasry Asfura, who is under corruption investigation. The Liberal Party (PL) is offering Jorge Cálix and Salvador Nasralla, the latter promising stronger relations with the U.S. and Taiwan.
U.S. support for electoral institutions has diminished, jeopardizing electoral integrity. While the Organization of American States (OAS) will send a technical team for the primaries, funding for comprehensive election monitoring remains uncertain for the upcoming general elections. The cessation of U.S. foreign assistance has hindered the ability of domestic and international civil society organizations to oversee electoral processes effectively.
Corruption related to electoral financing poses a grave risk to democracy in Honduras. The impeachment trial of Juan Orlando Hernández highlighted the impact of drug trafficking on governmental integrity. Audit requirements for political funding necessitate improvement to prevent undue influence from criminal outbreaks. Presently, merely 21% of candidates comply with regulations regarding campaign finance.
Increased violence surrounding elections is concerning. Reports indicate threats against electoral officials, including the CNE president, and a growing number of candidate assassinations. This violence stems from territorial disputes and the influence of organized crime within the region. Criminal networks exploit rural territories, often harming Indigenous populations and environmental activists. The situation in places like Guapinol River exemplifies these conflicts fueled by illegal economies.
Honduran authorities must prioritize the establishment of free and transparent elections. Although the National Congress secured electoral budgets, the commitment to monitor campaign financing and foster inter-institutional communication remains critical. The U.S. should renew support for electoral institutions and civil society to uphold electoral integrity amid heightened risks posed by organized crime and illicit financing.
The upcoming electoral landscape in Honduras reveals substantial challenges, including weakened U.S. cooperation, internal party strife, and a pressing need for transparency in campaign financing. The cessation of support for civil society monitoring initiatives could undermine electoral integrity and exacerbate violence and corruption. Both Honduran officials and U.S. policymakers must engage proactively to ensure fair elections and combat organized crime effectively to foster a stable democracy.
Original Source: www.wola.org
