In a statement the U.S. Representative Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), strong advocate for Haiti, Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, said to be deeply concerned that already long overdue elections in Haiti continue to be delayed and urge Senate to vote the electoral law in accordance with the spirit of the El Rancho Agreement.

"I’m deeply concerned that already long overdue elections in Haiti continue to be delayed. Alongside my South Florida Congressional colleagues Frederica Wilson and Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart, I visited Haiti last month and conveyed to all parties that elections are essential to preserve the democratic process and that Congress is watching closely this process in Haiti as we examine our foreign aid package. The consensus El Rancho Agreement signed on March 19 committed all parties to a clear path forward for holding elections this year for the Chamber of Deputies, two-thirds of the Senate, and local and regional offices.

The Executive Branch and Chamber of Deputies have so far adhered to their commitment and advanced the necessary elections legislation. Now it is time for the Haitian Senate to act and pass the electoral law in the spirit of the El Rancho Agreement so that an election date can be set. The Haitian people have a right to a voice in their democracy through free, fair and transparent elections. As a strong advocate for Haiti, I will continue to urge all parties to reach a consensus so that the people of Haiti can have their day at the ballot box and vote for their government representatives."

HL/ HaitiLibre