Haiti reaffirms February 2026 as date for new government

Haitian officials have reiterated their commitment to February 7, 2026, as the target date for the installation of a newly elected government.

This pledge was underscored during high-level meetings held from October 28 to 30, involving a Haitian delegation and representatives from the Venice Commission of the Council of Europe. The discussions were organized by the Organization of American States (OAS) through its Department of Electoral Cooperation and Observation (DECO) to address crucial constitutional and legislative measures needed for upcoming elections.

The meetings are part of ongoing efforts under OAS Permanent Council Resolution 1237, aimed at supporting Haiti in navigating its current political challenges. In June 2024, at the behest of OAS Secretary General Luis Almagro, the Venice Commission issued an interim opinion providing possible constitutional and legislative recommendations to facilitate Haiti’s future electoral procedures. While this opinion remains preliminary, it emphasizes the critical need for an inclusive and secure electoral process. It also reaffirmed that the Haitian people and their leaders are the primary decision-makers regarding the timeline and solutions for the ongoing crisis.

Haitian authorities outlined plans to move forward with the February 2026 inauguration date and discussed interim steps essential for achieving this goal. A key point raised during the discussions was the urgent need to restore security, which is deemed fundamental for holding both the planned constitutional referendum and subsequent elections.

The Steering Committee of the National Conference is set to initiate a national consultation on constitutional reform starting November 7, 2024. The committee aims to release a draft Constitution by the end of December 2024, which will then be presented to the public ahead of a referendum scheduled for March 2025. The Venice Commission has expressed its willingness to provide recommendations on the draft, while DECO is prepared to offer technical assistance as needed.

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Haitian officials have promised to maintain open communication with the public and international stakeholders regarding the progress of these reform initiatives. The Venice Commission, the OAS, and Haitian representatives have committed to upholding transparent dialogue and exploring a roadmap for post-referendum support.

A final opinion from the Venice Commission on constitutional and legislative solutions for Haiti’s electoral framework is expected by December 2024. This comprehensive opinion will address key aspects discussed during the meetings, such as electoral stability, gender and youth representation, diaspora voting, electronic voting, party financing, voter security, and safeguarding electoral materials.

The outcomes of these discussions are anticipated to be made public next week, signaling a collaborative step forward in Haiti’s journey toward restoring democratic governance.