WOLA: Advocacy for Human Rights in the Americas

Are Free and Fair Elections in Honduras Possible under Martial Law Regime?

In a memo written to Foreign Policy Aides today, WOLA explains how on June 28, Honduran President Manuel “Mel” Zelaya was overthrown, in what is widely understood as an illegal and unconstitutional coup. 

Democracy has faced a serious set back in Honduras.  Since the coup, the martial law regime of Roberto Micheletti has cracked down on human rights and civil liberties while touting elections as the way out of this crisis.   Under the current condition, elections will neither be free nor fair.  Minimally, what is required is a negotiated return to constitutional order, and respect for civil liberties and human rights. 

Please follow this link to read the full memo.