Election troubles.
Voters on March 15 returned to the polls for a rerun of municipal elections, controversially suspended on February 16 as a result of problems with the new automated voting system. The opposition had accused the incumbent government of delaying the vote for fear of defeat. Ultimately, the opposition Partido Revolucionario Moderno (Modern Revolutionary Party, PRM) performed strongly, taking more than half of the country’s 158 municipalities. All parties are gearing up for legislative and presidential elections on May 17, in an environment of heightened political tension.
International election observers will play a key role in attesting the credibility of this week’s results.
While the public will be understanding of a short election delay, a prolonged suspension may begin to foster unrest.
A COVID-19 outbreak in Haiti could have devastating consequences there, leading to prolonged border closures.
