Tegucigalpa, Jan. 4 (EFE). - The elected president of Honduras, Nasry 'Tito' Asfura, requested this Saturday that international organizations, cooperation agencies, and financial institutions 'refrain' from committing or disbursing funds for new projects during the 'democratic transition.' He reiterated his willingness to maintain an 'open dialogue' and 'effective institutional coordination.' Through a statement addressed to national and international banking and state suppliers, Asfura, who has the public backing of U.S. President Donald Trump, explained that the measure aims to preserve financial stability, strengthen governance, and ensure that resources align with the new administration's priorities. The elected leader requested that, under the principles of 'transparency, fiscal prudence, and responsible resource use,' national and international financial institutions 'refrain from committing, authorizing, or disbursing funds for new tenders, contract signings, concessions, or advances for new projects.' Asfura justified the request based on the 'urgent need' to make technical, budgetary, and administrative adjustments once he assumes his constitutional functions, to 'reorganize state finances' and 'establish a responsible prioritization of public resources aligned with the true needs and aspirations of the Honduran people.' Despite the request to halt disbursements, the elected president expressed his gratitude for the 'historical support' of the international community and reiterated his willingness to maintain an 'open dialogue' and 'effective institutional coordination,' with the 'firm commitment' that every resource allocated to the country will be used 'efficiently and with a focus on sustainable development, social equity, and collective well-being.' He also 'deeply thanked' the organizations for their understanding and respect for the 'transition process' and their commitment to 'democratic stability and development' in Honduras. Asfura, a construction businessman who served as mayor of Tegucigalpa for two terms, from 2014 to 2022, won the presidency under the banner of the conservative National Party. The National Electoral Council (CNE) declared Asfura the elected president on December 24 with 40.26% of the vote, followed by Salvador Nasralla of the also conservative Liberal Party with 39.54%, while the candidate from the ruling left-wing Liberty and Refoundation Party (Libre), Rixi Moncada, came in third with 19.19% of the ballots. Photo EFE.
