Ban welcomes next phase of Haiti’s electoral process, set for Sunday

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today welcomed the next phase of the electoral process in Haiti, which will take place on Sunday with the first round of presidential elections, the second round of legislative elections and the holding of municipal elections.

A statement issued by Mr. Ban’s spokesperson noted that “he reiterates his call to all Haitians to exercise their democratic right to vote.”

He also commended Haiti's institutions, particularly the Provisional Electoral Council and the Haitian National Police, for the steps they have taken “to facilitate a peaceful, inclusive and transparent vote.”

“The Secretary-General deplores the violent incidents that occurred in some locations during the first round of legislative elections on 9 August,” the statement added. “He calls on the Haitian authorities to ensure that all perpetrators of electoral violence are brought to justice.”

Meanwhile, Mr. Ban urged all political parties, candidates and their supporters to conclude their electoral campaigns peacefully, resolve any disputes that may arise through established legal procedures and support the Provisional Electoral Council in the next stage of the process.

The UN chief also reaffirmed the commitment of the UN to extend its full support to the Haitian people in the fulfilment of their democratic aspirations.