Haitians to vote December 13 in presidential, legislative elections

Haitians are set to go to the polls on December 13 for the first round of presidential and legislative elections, the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) announced. A runoff election is scheduled for February 21 of the following year, which will also include local government elections.

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The first round includes presidential and legislative elections as well as a popular vote on proposed constitutional reforms.

The upcoming vote will also feature a popular vote on proposed constitutional reforms. However, the CEP stressed that the elections' progression hinges on two critical factors: the establishment of an acceptable security climate and the availability of necessary funds to conduct electoral operations.

This revised timetable replaces a previous one that had set the first round for August 30 and the runoff for December 6. The CEP withdrew the earlier calendar in April at the government's request to allow for revisions aligning with a National Pact for Security and Organization of Elections and constitutional reform plans.

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These prerequisites are essential to meeting the proposed timeline and organising credible, inclusive and transparent elections.

Final election results are anticipated by March 7, with newly elected officials expected to assume office by March 12, 2027. The CEP, however, issued a stark warning: elections can only proceed if the government restores security nationwide, ensuring safe movement for voters, election workers, and materials. Securing adequate funding is also paramount for organizing credible, inclusive, and transparent elections.

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Without a serious electoral calendar, logistical planning, voter registration, the acquisition of sensitive materials, and the training of polling station staff become impossible. The absence of a precise timeline fuels skepticism among the population and opposition actors.