24668: Hermantin (news) Haitian elections are on track for '05

[sak-pase@bimini.ws]

leonie hermantin <lhermantin@hotmail.com>


Haitian elections are on track for '05
Roger F. Noriega
Assistant Secretary of State, Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs 
Washington, D.C.

April 5, 2005

The March 29 editorial suggesting that the United States is considering 
delaying elections in Haiti is incorrect ("Why drag feet on elections?").

Elections in Haiti will take place in October and November of this year. The 
United States, the United Nations, the Organization of American States and 
Haiti's other international friends are working with the interim government 
to ensure that the forthcoming elections are stable and reflective of both 
the rule of law and the democratic process now under way. We have already 
provided $8.7 million for Haitian voter registration programs, and we will 
spend $14 million on election-related activities in Haiti this year.

Criminality and politically instigated violence are a continuing source of 
concern in Haiti. In the face of these challenges, U.N. peacekeeping troops 
and civilian police advisers are working under exceptionally difficult 
conditions to restore security and create the stability that elections 
require. They are working to reverse the national police's legacy of 
corruption and brutality, through training, leadership and example.

Though much work needs to be done, there is reason to be optimistic about 
Haiti's future. Elections are a critical step on Haiti's path to democratic 
reform. The Haitian people deserve a government that reflects their desire 
for stability, security and a decent standard of living. We will work with 
them to help Haiti achieve this goal.


Copyright © 2005, South Florida Sun-Sentinel