Zimpapers Logo

“As if Haiti did not have enough problems, now, once again, those in power there are trying to subvert the will of the people,” Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Patrick Leahy, a Democrat, said in a statement.

“The United States must come down squarely in support of the Haitian people’s right to choose their leaders freely and fairly. By suspending direct aid to the central government and visas for top officials and their immediate family members, the United States would be sending that message,” he said.

His appeal came after violent protests — triggered by contested results and charges of vote-rigging — left five dead in cities around the impoverished Caribbean country and shuttered schools and government offices.
Tuesday’s results have sparked angry declarations from bitter rivals Jude Celestin and popular singer Michel Martelly, who both vowed to use legal means to secure a place in the race to succeed President Rene Preval.

In the wake of two days of clashes, the electoral commission is reviewing results that showed Martelly had been defeated by less than 7,000 votes and Preval’s handpicked protege Celestin had won a place in next month’s presidential run-off.

Martelly’s supporters have alleged vote-rigging in a nation with a history of political upheaval, corruption and violence.
“This process needs to bring about a legitimate government respected by the Haitian people and recognized by the international community,” said Leahy.