Haiti’s Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé has instructed Cabinet members and public administration officials to remain neutral and impartial during the electoral process, as the country prepares for general elections scheduled for December 13.
The prime minister said the credibility of the elections depends on public confidence in the neutrality of state institutions and the equal treatment of all candidates, political parties and coalitions. He also called on government officials to provide full support for the smooth conduct of the electoral process.
- Advertisement -
The commitment was formalized through a resolution adopted by the Council of Ministers on October 5, reaffirming the government’s obligation to maintain strict neutrality and ensure that public officials operate impartially throughout the elections.
Under the resolution, members of the government, civil servants, public administration employees and senior officials are prohibited from using state equipment or resources to conduct electoral propaganda in favour of any candidate, political party or coalition. Those who breach the neutrality requirement may face sanctions under existing laws and regulations.
The government said creating a safe and stable environment for elections is also part of its responsibility, describing neutrality and balanced leadership as essential to holding inclusive and transparent polls.
Meanwhile, Haiti’s Provisional Electoral Council has revised elements of the electoral timetable following amendments to the electoral decree. The deadline for online candidate registration and the submission of required documents has been extended to October 31, while the official campaign period has been postponed. The council said updated campaign dates would be announced through a revised electoral calendar.
The revised electoral framework covers presidential, legislative and local elections, as well as a constitutional referendum. The council has also confirmed that voter registration is continuing.
The electoral preparations come as Haiti seeks to restore elected leadership after years of political instability. The country has not held national elections since 2016, when Jovenel Moïse was elected president. Moïse was assassinated on July 7, 2021, leaving the country in a prolonged political crisis.
Security remains a major challenge, with armed gangs controlling or threatening communities and restricting movement in several areas. The violence has complicated preparations for elections and raised concerns about the ability of citizens in affected communities to participate safely.
The government’s neutrality pledge comes as authorities attempt to advance the electoral process amid changing regulations and logistical challenges. Whether the commitment translates into public confidence will depend on its implementation and the ability of state institutions to apply the rules fairly.
With candidate registration extended and campaign dates still to be confirmed, Haiti continues to face the task of preparing for elections while addressing the political and security conditions that have hindered its return to elected government.
