The Caribbean Community welcomes the announcement by the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) of Haiti of the official results of the first round of the presidential and legislative elections in that Member State. In congratulating the candidates who will contest the presidential and legislative run-offs, the Community also commends all those who participated in the elections for their commitment to the strengthening and continuation of democratic principles in this Member State of the Caribbean Community.

The Community looks forward to a vibrant campaign in the ensuing weeks leading to the polls of 20 March. This second round of elections will complete the renewal of two of the most important representative institutions in Haiti, the Presidency and the Parliament. The legitimacy of these two democratic institutions will be of critical importance for the continuing stability of the country and for the reconstruction process.

The Caribbean Community commends the people of Haiti for the calm and maturity displayed following the proclamation of the results which clearly demonstrates an acceptance that in elections, a critical dimension of the democratic process, there are always winners and losers.

The Caribbean Community also commends the Joint OAS-CARICOM Election Observation Mission for its steadfast application to its responsibilities in the most challenging and demanding circumstances and expresses its continued support for the work of the Mission.

Contact:  piu@caricom.org