The U.N. Security Council criticized “the protracted political, constitutional, humanitarian and security crises in Haiti” and urged the government to hold legislative elections and prepare for presidential elections this year.
A council statement approved by all 15 members stressed that “the democratic will of the Haitian people must be respected” and underscored the need to address election-related security, transparency and logistical issues so voting can take place.
“The Security Council urges all political stakeholders in Haiti to set aside their differences in the interest of the people of Haiti, to engage constructively to enable the organization of upcoming elections and to ensure elections take place in a peaceful environment, and calls on the international community to support Haiti in this endeavor,” the statement said.
The Security Council adopted the presidential statement before a Haitian appeals court on Wednesday ordered the release of more than a dozen people accused of plotting the coup against President Jovenel Moïse, a decision that opposition leaders celebrated.