Honduras is set to elect a new president on March 31, 2024, as the nation prepares for a closely contested race influenced by recent developments involving former U.S. President Donald Trump. This election marks a pivotal moment for the country, which has been grappling with economic challenges and political corruption.
Five candidates are vying for the presidency, with three emerging as frontrunners based on recent polling. Rixi Moncada, aged 60, previously served as finance and defense secretary under the current administration of President Xiomara Castro. Moncada is representing the social democratic LIBRE (Liberty and Re-foundation) party. Salvador Nasralla, making his fourth attempt for the presidency, is running as the candidate for the conservative Liberal Party. Lastly, Nasry “Tito” Asfura, the former mayor of Tegucigalpa, is representing the conservative National Party.
Candidate Profiles and Key Issues
The candidates have presented distinct platforms aimed at addressing the country’s pressing concerns. Moncada aims to “democratize” an economy characterized by stark contrasts between wealth and poverty. Nasralla positions himself as an outsider capable of tackling endemic corruption, while Asfura seeks to restore the National Party’s reputation as a pro-business entity following previous corruption scandals.
While Honduras has seen improvements in its security situation, it still holds the highest homicide rate in Central America. Voters have identified security and job creation as their top priorities, despite some economic strengthening during Castro’s presidency. The presidential race has largely revolved around accusations of potential electoral manipulation, but the political landscape shifted dramatically when Trump endorsed Asfura.
Trump’s endorsement came just days before the election and included harsh criticism of his opponents. In a surprising move, he also announced on March 29 his intention to pardon former President Juan Orlando Hernández, who is currently serving a 45-year sentence in a U.S. prison for drug trafficking offenses. This announcement has left many Hondurans feeling unsettled, raising questions about U.S. involvement in their electoral process.
Impact of U.S. Involvement on the Election
While the exact impact of Trump’s involvement remains uncertain, it signals a renewed U.S. interest in Honduras and Latin America. The timing is particularly sensitive, given ongoing tensions related to U.S. military activities in the Caribbean and Trump’s rhetoric toward Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. As Hondurans prepare to cast their votes, many hope for a peaceful election process amidst this backdrop of external political influence.
In addition to selecting a new president, voters will also elect a new Congress and numerous mayors and city council members. The outcome of this election could significantly shape Honduras’ political future and its relationship with the United States.
