Presidenta Xiomara Castro of Honduras called for public demonstrations in Tegucigalpa, alleging a potential coup attempt against her government. The call came early Tuesday morning, with Castro posting on X (formerly Twitter) that an “aggression” was underway to disrupt the constitutional order.
Allegations of a Plot
According to Castro, intelligence reports indicate that former President Juan Orlando Hernández, who was recently pardoned in the United States, is planning to return to Honduras to declare a new president. She stated, “I inform the Honduran people with historical responsibility that, based on verified intelligence, Juan Orlando Hernández…plans his entry into the country to proclaim the winner of the elections at the same time that an aggression is underway aimed at breaking the constitutional and democratic order through a coup against my government.”
The President’s statement follows a move by the Libertad y Refundación (Libre) party to prevent Marlon Ochoa, a counselor with the National Electoral Council (CNE), from signing the official election results. Libre has been pushing to declare the elections null and void, alleging fraud following the defeat of their presidential candidate, Rixi Moncada.
Escalating Tensions and Disturbances
The situation is further complicated by ongoing disturbances. The Central Logistics Center (CLE) has been the site of clashes since Monday, December 15th, when supporters of Libre allegedly attacked representatives of the National Party. Early Tuesday morning, police were forced to clear the Central Executive Council, where demonstrators had gathered. Several people were reportedly detained and injured.
Despite the unrest, Secretary of Security Gustavo Sánchez announced that those Libre members who were attacked during the night would be released. He also stated that the actions of the police would be investigated, following the circulation of videos showing officers using force against protestors. President Castro has stated that her government does not repress its people and has ordered the immediate removal of any officials who gave orders to do so.
What Could Happen Next
The immediate future remains uncertain. It is possible that President Castro’s call for demonstrations will result in widespread protests, potentially escalating the existing unrest. The response of the Honduran military and police will be critical. If Hernández does attempt to return to Honduras, it could further inflame the situation. The Organization of American States (OEA) has called for respecting the popular will and the naming of a new head of state, but the extent to which this call will be heeded remains to be seen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted President Castro’s statement?
President Castro stated her statement was prompted by verified intelligence reports indicating that Juan Orlando Hernández is planning to return to Honduras to proclaim a new president, and that a coup attempt was underway against her government.
What is the situation with the recent elections?
The Libertad y Refundación (Libre) party is challenging the results of the recent elections, alleging fraud after their candidate, Rixi Moncada, was defeated. They have requested the elections be declared null and void.
What actions have been taken in response to the disturbances?
Police have intervened to clear demonstrators from the Central Executive Council, resulting in detentions and injuries. Secretary of Security Gustavo Sánchez announced that those Libre members who were attacked would be released and that the actions of the police would be investigated.
Given the current political climate and allegations of a potential coup, what role do you believe international observers should play in ensuring a peaceful transition of power in Honduras?
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