The Freedom and Refoundation Party (Libre) has firmly reiterated its opposition to the electrical reforms proposed by President Nasry Asfura\u2019s government. This initiative, according to Libre, threatens the integrity of the National Electric Energy Company (ENEE) and could lead to a significant loss of state control over Honduras’ energy system.<\/p>\n
During a recent statement, Rixi Moncada, the deputy coordinator for Libre, expressed grave concerns over the proposed reforms. The statement, titled \u201cLet\u2019s Save the ENEE, Reform and Counter-Reform,\u201d emphasizes that the changes would jeopardize the public nature of the electrical service. Moncada highlighted that energy was declared a public good, essential for national security and a human right during Xiomara Castro’s administration.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cElectric energy was recognized as a right of the Honduran people and not as a private business,\u201d Moncada stated.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Structural Changes and Risks<\/h3>\n
Moncada further argued that the reforms aimed to modernize the sector would primarily serve the interests of the private sector. He characterized these reforms as representing \u201ca structural and fundamental change\u201d that would result in Honduras losing public ownership and sovereignty over its electricity sector.<\/p>\n
He also warned that such changes would effectively be a \u201ccoup de gr\u00e2ce\u201d for ENEE, especially concerning the potential transfer of the National Dispatch Center, a key body within the electrical system.<\/p>\n
Regulatory Commission Concerns<\/h3>\n
One of the pivotal points raised by Libre revolves around the proposed integration of the Electrical Energy Regulatory Commission (CREE). Moncada cautioned that the new proposal could increase private sector influence in the regulatory body, potentially compromising decision-making associated with the electrical system.<\/p>\n
According to Moncada, the proposed selection mechanism for this regulatory body would mirror the process used for electing judges to the Supreme Court, thereby allowing more significant private input in public decisions.<\/p>\n
Ongoing Political Debate<\/h3>\n
While Libre presents its concerns, the National Congress is still deliberating the reforms to the General Law of the Electrical Industry. The ruling party argues that ENEE faces monthly losses of approximately 1,500 million lempiras and a staggering historical debt exceeding 120 billion lempiras.<\/p>\n
Carlos Ledezma, the secretary of the National Congress, has indicated that the project has gathered enough support for potential approval, claiming the necessary 65 votes are already in hand.<\/p>\n
The government maintains that the reforms do not entail privatization but are designed to rescue the struggling ENEE financially. However, Libre continues to criticize proposed conflict resolution mechanisms and highlights their fears that such decisions might be increasingly dictated by private interests.<\/p>\n
Mobilizations and Public Response<\/h3>\n
In the wake of these developments, Libre has called for assemblies and mobilizations to defend the ENEE, emphasizing the need for more extensive national discourse regarding energy reforms. The ongoing political contention indicates that this topic will not only influence legislative outcomes but will also resonate deeply within the Honduran populace.<\/p>\n
As the National Congress approaches the third debate on these critical reforms, the political landscape in Honduras continues to polarize, with Libre steadfast in its resistance against what it perceives as a significant risk to public ownership and the right to energy access.<\/p>\n