Haiti reaffirms February 2026 as date for new government

Haitian officials have reiterated their commitment to February 7, 2026, as the target date for the installation of a newly elected government.

This pledge was underscored during high-level meetings held from October 28 to 30, involving a Haitian delegation and representatives from the Venice Commission of the Council of Europe. The discussions were organized by the Organization of American States (OAS) through its Department of Electoral Cooperation and Observation (DECO) to address crucial constitutional and legislative measures needed for upcoming elections.

The meetings are part of ongoing efforts under OAS Permanent Council Resolution 1237, aimed at supporting Haiti in navigating its current political challenges. In June 2024, at the behest of OAS Secretary General Luis Almagro, the Venice Commission issued an interim opinion providing possible constitutional and legislative recommendations to facilitate Haiti’s future electoral procedures. While this opinion remains preliminary, it emphasizes the critical need for an inclusive and secure electoral process. It also reaffirmed that the Haitian people and their leaders are the primary decision-makers regarding the timeline and solutions for the ongoing crisis.