Statement to the Press by the President of the Security Council
HAITI
The Security Council received a briefing from Ms. Angela Kane, Director (Europe and Americas Division), Department of Political Affairs, on the first round of legislative elections in Haiti.
Council members acknowledged the holding of elections and noted with satisfaction that there has been a considerable increase in voter participation and a generally peaceful process in this first round, underlining the desire of the Haitian people to take advantage of their democratic rights.
Council members expressed concern with the violence during the electoral period and reports of irregularities in electoral procedures and the changes occurring in the Counseil Electoral Provisoire.
Council members underlined that free and fair elections are crucial to democracy and all aspects of Haiti’s development, and encouraged the Haitian Government to investigate reports of irregularities. They supported the observations pointed out by the national observers and the OAS electoral observers. They called on the Haitian authorities to take these observations into account in addressing these irregularities.
Council members requested the Secretary-General to continue to keep them fully informed on the evolution of the electoral process and, in particular, on the measures taken by the Haitian Government to comply with the electoral law. They expressed support for the role of the Representative of the Secretary-General in helping Haiti’s political leadership to strengthen the country’s democratic institutions.
Council members also welcomed the leadership role provided by the OAS and CARICOM in addressing this issue and others related to the promotion of democracy in Haiti.
Council members further underlined that the people and the Government of Haiti bear the ultimate responsibility for national reconciliation, the maintenance of a secure and stable environment, the administration of justice and the reconstruction of their country.
Council members expressed support for the long-term economic and social development of Haiti.