UN welcomes election of provisional President in Haiti

Jocelerme Privert to serve as interim President for 120 days

United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed the election on Sunday of Joselerme Privert as the interim President of Haiti.

Privert’s election by the National assembly comes one week after the departure of former President Michel Martelly.

Opposition parties had boycotted the second round of elections to on January 24 to elect a successor to Martelly, accusing the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) and Martelly of wanting to rig the polls in favour of the government backed candidate.

“This election stems from the agreement signed on February 6 between Haitian stakeholders to preserve institutional continuity and further the electoral process,” according to a statement issued by Ban’s spokesperson.

In welcoming this “crucial first step,” the UN Secretary-General urged all parties to work together towards the implementation of the roadmap contained in the agreement “to ensure the return to constitutional normality.

“The Secretary-General expresses his confidence that the stabilization of Haiti and the democratic process will continue in a peaceful and collaborative manner,” the statement said.

Privert will serve as interim President for 120 days.