Political accountability and ZEDE legal challenges in HN

In Honduras, efforts to hold legislators accountable have faced significant legal and procedural hurdles. The National Congress recently archived a citizen-led petition to impeach over 80 deputies after the National Registry of Persons verified only 1,710 valid signatures, falling short of the 3,000 required by law.

Following this, former Attorney General Johel Zelaya has called for legal action against lawmakers involved in the approval of the ZEDES (Employment and Economic Development Zones) framework. Zelaya argued that since the framework was declared unconstitutional, those responsible should face consequences, noting that parliamentary immunity has historically prevented such proceedings. He has urged the Liberal and National parties to repeal Decree 117-2019.

Building on these developments, the National Anti-Corruption Council (CNA) has called for a dialogue table to address the future of the ZEDE regime. This follows a Supreme Court ruling that declared the regime unconstitutional, citing violations of the justice system and territorial organization. The court’s decision carries ‘ex tunc’ effects, meaning it applies from the origin of the questioned laws.

Separately, the Association for a Just Society (ASJ) is preparing to present electoral reform proposals to the National Congress, covering political financing, electoral administration, and the potential introduction of a second-round voting system.