Lawyer Barrientos and electoral reform in Honduras: what is happening?

In Honduras, discussions regarding the involvement of the military in voting procedures have become more significant due to a sequence of incidents that have sparked debate and skepticism. A report from the internal audit of the National Electoral Council (CNE) attributed logistical mishaps during the primary elections to the military, while the targeted disarmament of certain officers has led to doubts concerning the impartiality of the military organization.

In this context, attorney and constitutional specialist Julio César Barrientos has advocated for a change in the constitution to remove the military from any involvement in election-related activities, stating that their involvement undermines the process’s integrity and impartiality.

CNE overview and inquiries regarding the armed forces’ involvement in voting processes

The examination document from the CNE uncovered notable flaws in the Armed Forces’ adherence to logistical procedures during the preliminary voting process. It pointed out unexplained changes in routes, withholding of election transport vehicles, insufficient distribution of technology kits in rural locales, and poor interaction between military leaders and voting coordinators. These issues resulted in setbacks for polling stations’ opening times and cast doubts on the process’s transparency. Furthermore, the military leadership and government’s silence on these allegations has heightened suspicion.

Considering this scenario, opposition groups have called for an evaluation of the pact between the CNE and the Armed Forces, the involvement of foreign observers, and independent checks of the results transmission mechanism. Within this framework, attorney Barrientos has labeled the constitutional clause that tasks the Armed Forces with the protection of voting boxes, the distribution of election materials, and logistical assistance to the CNE as “outdated, risky, and susceptible to manipulation.” Barrientos contends that the involvement of the military in civil processes undermines institutional impartiality and allows for the potential influence of political force and deceit.

Suggested change to the constitution and dissatisfaction in the military

Barrientos suggests a reform to the constitution aimed at shifting electoral responsibilities to a Technical Electoral Directorate linked to the CNE. This new body would comprise civilian staff, receive specialized training, and operate with full transparency. The objective of this proposal is to update and protect electoral procedures from military influence. Barrientos’ appeal resonates with an increasing number of individuals advocating for elections managed by civilians instead of the military.

Nevertheless, the debate extends beyond logistical issues and the suggested changes to the constitution. The choice by the Joint Chiefs of Staff to target specific Armed Forces officers for disarmament has sparked worry in different circles. Based on accounts from military insiders and reports, this disarmament is not being uniformly enforced but is instead directed at officers who have shown independent or critical views towards the governing party. This action is seen as a covert cleansing effort within the military, leading to unease and dissatisfaction among mid- and senior-level officers.

The primary concern for leaders in the opposition is that if the ruling party potentially loses the election, the government might attempt to employ the military to ignore the results or suppress protests. These occurrences have intensified questions regarding the government’s direction and the potential misuse of military entities.