Honduras in Turmoil: Electoral Chaos Unfolds Amid Accusations and International Tensions

Honduras is experiencing electoral unrest following a controversial presidential vote marked by technical issues, allegations of fraud, and political interventions, notably by former U.S. President Donald Trump. With two leading candidates, Asfura and Nasralla, both claiming victory, the country's stability hangs in the balance as votes are reviewed.

In a fraught atmosphere, Honduran President Xiomara Castro has declared an 'electoral coup' in the wake of a problematic vote count from the November 30 presidential election. Technical issues and fraud claims have marred the process, which has been overshadowed by former U.S. President Donald Trump's intervention in favor of conservative candidate Nasry Asfura.

Asfura currently leads by a narrow margin, although significant inconsistencies in the vote count could shift the election results. Meanwhile, protests loom as both he and his rival, Salvador Nasralla, claim victory. The electoral chaos recalls the unrest during the disputed 2017 elections, raising fears of further instability.

Election data mishaps have fueled public frustration, exacerbated by a private firm's mishandling of the vote-counting system. The National Electoral Council pledges to finalize results by December 30. The international community, along with the U.S., is closely watching developments and has signaled readiness to react to any discrepancies as tensions rise in Honduras.

(With inputs from agencies.)