Ban, concerned over political uncertainty in Haiti, urges transfer of power through polls

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed his concern today over growing political uncertainty in Haiti and urged the two candidates in the presidential run-off there to help the electoral process move forward while preserving the country’s democratic gains.

“The Secretary-General is concerned over the growing political uncertainty in Haiti, following the publication of the results of the 25 October elections,” which included the first round of presidential polls, read a statement issued through his spokesperson.

While taking note of the efforts by all stakeholders, including the establishment of an electoral evaluation commission on 16 December to address the concerns of opposition parties and ensure the successful and timely conclusion of the presidential elections, Mr. Ban in his statement stressed “the responsibility of all political actors to discourage violence and encourage a spirit of unity throughout the country.”

According to the statement, the UN chief “calls for the urgent intensification of dialogue to ensure the transfer of power through elections, within the constitutional timeframe, maintain stability and preserve the country’s democratic gains.”

“The Secretary-General urges the two candidates in the presidential run-off to engage in good faith with the relevant institutions to identify and implement measures to help the process move forward,” the statement said.

According to press reports, the run-off had been set for 27 December between Jovenel Moise from the governing party and former government executive Jude Celestin, but the election has been postponed until further notice.

In his statement, Mr. Ban reaffirmed the commitment of the UN Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) and the entire UN system to continue supporting the Haitian people in the fulfilment of their democratic aspirations.

In a statement to the press, the members of the UN Security Council trusted that, with the support of the international community, the Haitian people will build upon the first two rounds of Haitian elections and be able to bring the electoral process to a successful conclusion in the upcoming final round.

“The members of the Security Council expressed their strong commitment to supporting free and fair elections and called on all political forces to work through the electoral process to ensure that the will of the people is reflected in the outcome of the election,” the statement added.

Council members also called on all candidates, political parties, and political actors to publicly commit to the electoral process and timely government formation in accordance with the constitutional timeframe, including the inauguration of a new president by 7 February 2016.