Deeply concerned about the continuing instability in Haiti and the prospect of a breakdown in the social order, the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) emphasise that only strict adherence to the democratic process will constitute a proper solution to the political problems in Haiti.
In this regard the Heads of Government reaffirm that elections are the only means to legitimate government in any democratic society and reiterate their clear and unambiguous support for the forthcoming electoral process in Haiti as a means of resolving the continuing political stalemate. To this end they fully expect all parties to the electoral process to act in good faith.
Heads of Government call for the immediate establishment of the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) in accordance with the Organisation of American States Resolution 822 so that free, fair and transparent elections can be organised during the first half of 2003.
Heads of Government are aware that the Government of Haiti has the particular responsibility to continue to meet the commitments undertaken in accordance with OAS Resolution 822. In this connection, they welcomed the commitment of the President of Haiti to fulfil immediately the requirements of the government with regard to the establishment of the provisional electoral council. Heads of Government urge the political opposition to co-operate with the Government in the implementation of this resolution as all parties must work together towards restoring normalcy in Haiti.
The Heads of Government of CARICOM reiterate their call to the international financial institutions to relaunch effectively their financial co-operation with Haiti as called for in OAS Resolution 822.
