The primary elections in Honduras, held last Sunday, March 9, were marked by public discontent due to serious failures in the distribution of electoral materials, causing delays of up to 16 hours at several polling stations. Amid rising frustration, evangelical leaders called for calm and urged citizens to maintain peace as protests erupted over logistical mishaps and irregularities in the voting process.
According to CNN en Español, from the early hours of the morning, long lines formed, and protests emerged due to delays in the delivery of ballot boxes and the absence of party representatives at polling stations. The disorder was particularly evident in Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula, where voters expressed dissatisfaction with the irregularities in the process.
The Evangelical Fellowship of Honduras (CEH) issued a statement urging the Honduran people to remain calm and peaceful following the incidents during the primary elections. The call came after reports of irregularities and acts of violence raised concerns across various social sectors.
In its official statement, the CEH expressed deep concern about the events and urged authorities to ensure a transparent and fair electoral process. It also called on the public to avoid being provoked into confrontations or disturbances.
“As a church, we pray that God will take control of the situation and that every Honduran will act with prudence and responsibility. The country needs peace and reconciliation in the midst of this political situation,” the organization stated.
The Evangelical Fellowship also urged political leaders and candidates to act with maturity and responsibility, avoiding rhetoric that could incite violence or hatred. It emphasized the importance of promoting national unity and respect for democratic institutions.
Additionally, the evangelical organization reaffirmed its commitment to continue interceding for Honduras, encouraging the country's evangelical churches to unite in prayer for peaceful solutions and to prevent acts that threaten social stability.
The statement highlighted that citizens have the right to participate actively in democratic processes but should always do so within a framework of respect and civility. “As Christians, we are called to be peacemakers and to act wisely in times of crisis,” the CEH emphasized.
Honduran citizens participated in the primary elections to select candidates from the three main parties who will contest the presidency next November. The country remains deeply polarized, with growing skepticism toward both left- and right-wing leaders, who have struggled to make significant progress in improving security and the economy.
Several Honduran evangelical leaders supported the Evangelical Fellowship’s call, stressing that the country needs deep reflection on peaceful coexistence and mutual respect. Meanwhile, the Christian community continues to promote days of prayer for stability and national reconciliation.
The Latin American Evangelical Alliance (AEL) expressed its support for the CEH’s statement, showing solidarity with the Honduran people and encouraging congregations across the region to join in prayer for the Central American nation.
Originally published by Diario Cristiano, Christian Daily International's Spanish edition.
