Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Tegucigalpa (Agenzia Fides) – Honduras will be called Sunday, November 29th to take part in a controversial presidential election, which the majority of Latin American countries do not recognized, but which could be recognized by the United States of America, and thus could leave behind the crisis the national political process following the coup of June 28.
The governments of Latin American nations, led by the leaders of Brazil and Venezuela, said an election held by a "de facto" government like that of Roberto Micheletti, are not legitimate. The United States, while condemning the coup, has recently softened their position, arguing that elections can be made if they conform to international standards and if the Honduran Congress will vote for the return of ousted President Manuel Zelaya (goal not reached by the month October). On that date (October 8), the Bishops of Honduras published a statement in which, quoting Pope Benedict XVI, they asked for an immediate solution with the participation of the people, considering the difficult situation being experienced by the country: "We cannot continue in uncertainty, in personal and social tensions, only to end up in economic decline. It is urgent that a solution that is just, peaceful, and agreed upon, be found in order to guarantee peaceful coexistence and authentic democratic life.”
However, Congress will not vote for the return of Zelaya until 2 December, after the elections, which will not be attended by the Organization of American States (OAS) nor the Carter Center. There are five candidates contesting the elections, including the favorite who is Porfirio Lobo, of the National Party. (EC) (Agenzia Fides 27/11/2009)
