Preliminary Election Results Announced in Haiti as Secretary-General

 

Expresses Concern over Allegations of Fraud

 

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General takes note that the preliminary results of the presidential and legislative elections which took place on 28 November in Haiti have been announced.  He is concerned about allegations of fraud and is strongly committed to supporting free and fair elections that reflect the will of the Haitian people.  He also notes that these results are not final and are subject to the provisions stipulated in the electoral law.  He urges all candidates to exhaust the formal remedies and legal procedures, which will allow a clearer picture to emerge.  This would be a solid base on which to move forward.

The Secretary-General expresses his concern over the acts of violence that have taken place in the aftermath of the announcement of the preliminary results.  He reminds all candidates that they have a personal responsibility to encourage their supporters to remain calm and to stop violence.  A peaceful solution to the current situation is crucial not only to confront the cholera epidemic in the short term, but also to create the conditions in the medium term for recovery and development from the earthquake.

* *** *

For information media • not an official record