Haitian Opposition Warns Gangs Could Win Election

Haitian politician and lawyer André Michel says Haiti must improve security before the country holds its long-awaited elections.

Michel made the warning ahead of a visit by a high-level delegation from the Organization of American States and CARICOM. He said Haiti needs a basic level of security to ensure a fair electoral process.

Michel warned that armed gangs could win the elections if authorities fail to restore order. He also said the country must reopen national highways before voters can safely take part in the election.

The OAS delegation arrived in Haiti as officials work to prepare for the vote. OAS Secretary General Albert R. Ramdin is leading the three-day visit. He said the group wants to improve cooperation on security, elections, institutions, humanitarian needs and long-term development.

Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé has said the elections will take place this year. The Provisional Electoral Council has also published its final list of approved political groups.

The first round of presidential and legislative elections is set for December 13. Voters will also take part in a constitutional referendum.

The election would be Haiti’s first national vote since 2016. That year, Jovenel Moïse won the presidency. He was later assassinated in July 2021.

Michel said Haitian voters must have safe roads and communities before they go to the polls. He also urged his supporters to register and vote. Michel said he plans to register in Port-au-Prince this week.

Meanwhile, Germany reportedly plans to support the Gang Suppression Force approved by the United Nations Security Council.

Reports say Germany could provide aircraft to transport equipment and supplies for international forces working in Haiti.

The security force will include personnel from several countries. These include Chad, Sri Lanka, Mongolia, Bangladesh, Guatemala, and Côte d’Ivoire.

Officials plan to increase the number of troops and police officers in Haiti during August and September. They also want to expand operations outside Port-au-Prince.

The force will focus on areas such as the Artibonite department. It will also work to protect routes used to deliver humanitarian aid.

Authorities hope to reach the full deployment of 5,500 military and police personnel by October. The plan also includes 50 civilian advisers.

For Haitian officials and political leaders, security remains a major challenge ahead of the December vote. Michel says restoring basic safety must come first if Haiti wants a credible election.