Haiti Sets First Presidential Elections in a Decade for December Amid Security Concerns

Haiti's Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) has officially scheduled the country's first presidential and legislative elections in over a decade for December 13, with a runoff set for February 21, 2026. The announcement follows years of delays fueled by political instability and rampant gang violence that has paralyzed the capital, Port-au-Prince. Haiti has not held a national election since 2016, leading to a total vacuum of elected officials across the Caribbean nation.

The council emphasized that the success of this timeline depends heavily on establishing an acceptable security climate and securing the necessary international funding. Ongoing conflict with powerful armed gangs remains the primary hurdle, as these groups currently control large swaths of territory. Despite these challenges, the CEP has begun the process of registering voters and has published a list of over 300 approved political parties ready to compete.

International observers remain cautious, noting that previous attempts to set election dates were abandoned as security conditions worsened. Successive interim governments have struggled to maintain order, and the current transition council faces immense pressure to provide a safe environment for voters. If successful, the final results are expected to be published on March 7, marking a potential turning point for Haiti's democratic institutions.