Kenneth H. Merten, Ambassador of the United States in Port-au-Prince on Tuesday urged people to vote massively on Sunday to elect a president, one third of the Senate and all deputies.

The diplomat said "We are ready to support a politic of development capable of transforming the socio-politico-economic development of Haiti", Recalling that this support will be alongside the international community to improve living conditions of Haitian citizens.

Concerning the political actors who claim the postponement of elections, the Ambassador insisted that elections must take place this Sunday, according to the Haitian constitution, stressing that most candidates are in favor of holding elections this Sunday. Adding that the term of the mandate of President René Préval ended on February 7th, 2011, and elections must be held for appoint his replacement.

Regarding the recent events in Port-au-Prince and several provincial cities, including Cap-Haitien and Hinche, Merten said he believes the elections will be held on November 28, will give the population an opportunity to express in their vote their possible discontents face to the management team in place.

Concerning the safety of these elections, the diplomat said he had consulted on that MINUSTAH and the Haitian National Police and he has full confidence in their ability to cope with slippage.

S/ HaitiLibre