OAS Warns Honduras Faces Highly Complex Electoral Process

Tegucigalpa, Honduras — The Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), Albert Ramdin, warned that Honduras is experiencing a highly complex electoral and political process, following the presentation of the preliminary report by the OAS Electoral Observation Mission (EOM).

Ramdin made the statement during an extraordinary session of the OAS Permanent Council, where member states reviewed the initial findings related to Honduras’ ongoing electoral process.

OAS Observations Align With Electoral Mission Findings

According to the OAS Secretary General, opinions expressed by member states were consistent with the technical observations of the Electoral Observation Mission, as well as political reports received by the organization’s General Secretariat.

Ramdin noted that the OAS has addressed Honduras’ political situation in two separate sessions in a short period of time, reflecting growing concern over the country’s electoral environment.

“Discussing political developments in a member state twice in such a short time highlights the value of multilateralism and the importance of this organization,” Ramdin said.

Multilateral Support Key During Sensitive Political Periods

Ramdin emphasized the role of multilateral institutions in supporting countries facing politically sensitive situations. He explained that OAS engagement allows for dialogue with member states and the provision of technical assistance when required.

He stressed that while electoral processes are internal matters, they must adhere to the principles of the Inter-American Democratic Charter, ensuring that citizens can vote freely and without interference.

Polarization Among Electoral Authorities Raises Concerns

The OAS Secretary General warned that the current composition of Honduras’ electoral authorities has contributed to a climate of political polarization, which he said undermines public confidence in the electoral process.

“What we see now is an electoral authority structure that opens the door to polarization, and that does not help the process,” Ramdin stated.

OAS Continues Monitoring Honduras Elections

Ramdin recognized the work of the Electoral Observation Mission, led by Ambassador Eladio Loizaga, and confirmed that the OAS is maintaining ongoing monitoring of both technical and political aspects of Honduras’ electoral process.

Despite the challenges identified, he emphasized that the process has not yet concluded and should be allowed to proceed within the institutional framework.

“We are facing a very complex electoral process and also a very complex political process, and it is important to remember that it has not concluded,” he said.

Call for Responsibility to Preserve Stability in Honduras Elections

Ramdin called on political leaders, particularly presidential candidates and members of electoral authorities, to act with responsibility, impartiality, and respect for the rule of law to preserve social peace.

He warned that instability prior to the official announcement of election results would be harmful to Honduras.