Honduras Elects New President: A Pivotal Moment for the Central American Nation

Honduras wrapped up voting in its presidential election Sunday, with three candidates locked in a tight race to succeed President Xiomara Castro. Polls show no clear frontrunner as the country picks its next leader amid ongoing economic challenges and migration pressures.

The main contenders represent different political directions for the Central American nation. Nasry "Tito" Asfura, 67, is making his second run for president after losing to Castro in 2021. The National Party candidate brings a right-wing platform focused on security and economic growth.

His biggest challenger appears to be Rixi Moncada, a 60-year-old lawyer representing Castro's ruling Liberty and Refoundation Party. Moncada is banking on continuity with the current administration's policies. The third major candidate is Salvador Nasralla, 72, a television presenter running under the Liberal Party banner.

This election matters beyond Honduras' borders. The country sits on a key migration route to the United States, and whoever wins will shape policies affecting thousands of people seeking to reach the US border. Economic instability and violence have driven many Hondurans to leave their homeland in recent years.

Castro's presidency marked a shift toward the left after years of conservative rule, but her administration faced criticism over handling corruption and the economy. The new president will inherit these same challenges, plus pressure from Washington on migration and drug trafficking issues.

Results could take days to finalize, and a runoff election might be needed if no candidate wins more than 50% of the vote. The winner will take office in January for a four-year term.