The first round of parliamentary elections held in Haiti marks the expression by the Haitian people of their sovereign will. These parliamentary elections are an important step on the road to democratic renewal in Haiti.
 
Sadly, incidents have cost the lives of Haïtian citizens and led to voting being halted in some places. Everyone involved in the political process in Haiti must do all within their power to ensure that the elections go ahead without violence. 
 
The authorities must continue to ensure that the process is inclusive and transparent, especially during the crucial stages of centralising the results and resolving disputes.
 
As part of its special relationship of cooperation with Haiti, the EU has sent an Election Observation Mission to boost confidence in the electoral process. This Mission, which has presented its independent evaluation today, will remain on the spot to observe all the stages of the process until its conclusion.