Brussels, 22/03/2011 (Agence Europe) - The EU, through High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton, hailed the way the second round of voting was conducted in the presidential and general elections in Haiti on 20 March (see 10341) and called on all parties to show the same calm and respect for constitutional and democratic rules in taking the process forward.
In a statement published on Monday 21 March, Ashton says: “The Haitian people turned out to vote peacefully and with dignity in the second round of the country's presidential and general elections. I hail their desire thus to determine the future of the country and congratulate the Haitian authorities, national and international observers and Haiti's partners for the part they played in helping the voting to pass off smoothly, while regretting the few acts of violence that stained these elections. I call on Haiti's national authorities and all political players to contribute constructively to the conclusion of the electoral process so that the final results of voting can be established quickly, transparently and in line with the constitution and the democratic will of the Haitian people”.
Ashton gave assurances that the EU “will continue its long-term commitment to the country to help it rebuild” after the earthquake in January 2010 and “to help the government and the people build a better future”.
In the view of MEP Michèle Striffler (EPP, France), permanent rapporteur on humanitarian aid and leader of the EPP Group delegation in the EU electoral observation team: “We can consider it (the second round of voting) as an example. (It) was organised in a way that assures the accuracy of the ballot and we welcome the significant absence of violence.” She went on: “We are sure that both (presidential) candidates will recognise and accept the democratic decision expressed by the people of Haiti. Only a legitimately elected president and members of parliament will be in a position to adopt the necessary measures, as the reconstruction of the country needs stability and political will”. (A.N./transl.rt)