The Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), José Miguel Insulza, notes with serious concern the continuing difficulties in the approval and appointment of a new Prime Minister in Haiti, following the rejection of President Michel Martelly's second nominee for this post by the Haitian Parliament.

Secretary General Insulza recognizes the constitutional responsibility of Parliament in approving or not the President's designee for the post of Prime Minister. He therefore calls on the Haitian political leadership to re-double their efforts in finding a consensus that will allow for the formation of a new government at the earliest, noting that Haiti has been without a fully functioning government since the inauguration of President Martelly on May 14, 2011.

"Mindful of the urgency to continue with the reconstruction efforts (following the devastation caused by the January 12, 2010 earthquake in Haiti) and the crucial importance of consolidating and strengthening democracy in this OAS founding Member State, a consensus needs to be found for the approval of a Prime Minister," said the head of the hemispheric organization.

Secretary General Insulza further elaborated that a functioning government is critical for the people of Haiti in addressing the varied problems confronting the country at this time. Reiterating his appeal for the development of a national consensus/dialogue among all Haitians, the OAS head affirmed that Haiti’s international partners are desirous of continuing to support the delivery of much needed development assistance to the country.

HL/ HaitiLibre