We, the undersigned, are extremely concerned that the forthcoming elections in Haiti, now postponed, should be conducted in a free, fair and open manner when they take place.
In order to achieve this we strongly urge that all political parties and groups, including the Fanmi Lavalas party headed by Jean-Bertrand Aristide be enabled to participate and to organise on an equal basis, and without restrictions.
Prime Minister Yvon Neptune, Fr. Gérard Jean-Juste and all political prisoners be released and enabled to participate in the elections. President Aristide and all political exiles be allowed to return to Ha•ti, and enabled to participate in the elections.
The people of Haiti, regardless of social class or place of residence, be given equal access to polling stations and equal opportunity to vote at the last election, there were over 10,000 polling stations; it is planned to hold the next election with 600.
The votes shall be recorded and counted in an open and transparent manner. All state forces and all forces and representatives of the United Nations shall be charged with ensuring that the elections are conducted in a peaceful atmosphere.
Above all, the violent repression directed mainly at the Famni Lavalas party by the interim government of Gérard Latortue must cease. This repression has been documented in Human Rights reports by Amnesty International and others. We believe that the elections should not be held unless and until these conditions are met. If the interim government is unable or unwilling to help create these conditions, it should resign.
Seán Crowe
Martin Ferris
John Gormley
Finian McGrath
Arthur Morgan
Caoimhín O Caoláin
Aongus O Snodaigh
David Norris