Canada concerned by third postponement of Haitian presidential election
News Release
April 29, 2016 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada
The Honourable Stéphane Dion, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, today issued the following statement regarding the election process in Haiti:
“Canada deplores the fact that the elections, scheduled to take place on April 24, have been cancelled for the third time, as well as indications that they may not take place until October. It is essential that Haitian political actors take the necessary and responsible actions to re-establish constitutional order quickly so that they can devote themselves entirely to resolving the difficulties the Haitian people are facing.
“We are very concerned that commitments made in the February 5, 2016, agreement, when Haiti’s leaders promised their fellow citizens the election process would be completed in 90 days or less, are not being met.
“As a partner of Haiti and of all Haitians, Canada once again calls on Haitian political actors to do everything they can to ensure that the partial legislative elections and the second round of the presidential election take place quickly and peacefully. Canada will continue its dialogue with Haitian leaders in support of Haitians’ democratic aspirations. In accordance with Canada and Haiti’s joint commitments in the International Organisation of La Francophonie, Haiti, more than ever, needs to strengthen its democratic institutions, as an essential step to ensure inclusive governance, peaceful pluralism and inclusive economic growth.”
Quick facts
- Canada’s priority for Haiti is to promote a responsible, democratic government, inclusive and sustainable economic growth and prosperity, support for the health and well-being of Haitian women and youth, and security and the rule of law.
- Haiti is the largest recipient of Canadian development assistance in the Americas. The Government of Canada has invested over $1.6 billion in humanitarian and development assistance since 2006.
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