Honduras votes in pivotal presidential election amid tight race

Voters in Honduras are heading to the polls in a critical general election that will determine the country's next president and the composition of its national congress. The presidential race, which has attracted significant international interest, is a tight contest between three leading candidates, each promising a different path for the Central American nation of approximately 10 million people.

A Three-Way Presidential Contest

While five names appear on the presidential ballot, the race is largely dominated by three figures. Rixi Moncada of the ruling Libre party is campaigning on a platform of social justice and economic democratization. Her main rival, Nasry "Tito" Asfura of the National Party, is focusing on job creation through public-private partnerships. The third leading contender is Salvador Nasralla of the Liberal Party, who is making his third presidential bid on an anti-corruption and pro-business platform.

International Stakes and Allegations

The election has drawn commentary from international figures, most notably from the United States. Former President Donald Trump publicly endorsed Asfura, vowing to be "very supportive" of Honduras if he wins and pledging a pardon for former leader Juan Orlando Hernandez. The campaign has been tense, with the ruling party and the main opposition trading accusations. President Xiomara Castro has alleged that the National Party plans to dispute the results if they lose, following the release of recordings that purportedly show officials discussing ways to alter the vote.

A Comprehensive National Vote

Beyond the presidency, Honduran voters are selecting 128 members of Congress, 20 representatives to the Central American Parliament, and mayors for nearly 300 municipalities. With about 6.5 million registered voters, the outcome of this election will shape the country's direction for the next four years. Polls opened at 7 a.m. local time and were scheduled to close at 5 p.m., with a possible extension, as the nation decides its political future.