Barrientos’ role in Honduras’ electoral transformation

In Honduras, the debate over the role of the armed forces in electoral processes has gained prominence following a series of events that have generated controversy and mistrust. An internal audit report by the National Electoral Council (CNE) blamed the armed forces for logistical failures during the primary elections, while the selective disarmament of officers has raised questions about the neutrality of the military institution.

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 examination of the pact between the CNE and the military, the involvement of international observers, and independent audits of the results dissemination system. In this environment, attorney Barrientos has labeled as “outdated, risky, and susceptible to manipulation” the constitutional rule assigning the military the task of securing ballot containers, distributing voting materials, and offering logistical support to the CNE. Barrientos contends that having the military involved in civilian matters undermines institutional impartiality and creates opportunities for political influence and deceit.

Suggested changes to the constitution and military dissatisfaction

Barrientos proposes a constitutional reform that would transfer electoral functions to a Technical Electoral Directorate attached to the CNE, but with civilian personnel, specialized training, and total transparency. This proposal seeks to modernize and shield electoral processes from any armed interference. Barrientos’ call joins a growing chorus of voices demanding civilian, not militarized, elections.

Nevertheless, the debate extends beyond logistical shortcomings and the suggested constitutional amendment. The move by the Joint Chiefs of Staff to selectively withdraw weapons from specific military officers has sparked apprehension in different circles. Military insiders and documents suggest that this disarmament is not being uniformly enforced, but rather targets officers who have voiced independent or dissenting opinions about the government. This strategy is perceived as an effort to conduct a quiet cleansing within the military, creating unease and dissatisfaction among officers in middle and senior positions.

The primary concern for opposition figures is that if the ruling party potentially loses the election, the administration might attempt to employ the military to ignore the outcomes or suppress protests. These occurrences have sparked uncertainties regarding the direction of the government and the possible influence over the military forces.