Haiti political parties challenge CEP over election delays and budget

Political parties in Haiti, signatories of the National Pact for Stability and Election Organization, have raised concerns regarding the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) and the upcoming 2026 election cycle. The groups, including PHTK, En Avant, ASE, KONBA, LAVNI, OPL, and RED, expressed apprehension that the CEP may be delaying the electoral process.

A primary point of contention is a proposed election budget of $250 million submitted by the CEP on March 26, 2026. Critics have labeled this amount excessive, noting that the 2016 elections cost the state approximately $50 million. Political factions suggest the budget and the delay in officializing it may be strategies to stall the process or oppose restructuring within the council.

With the first round of elections scheduled for August 30, 2026, these parties argue the CEP is struggling to meet the political, technical, and administrative challenges required to ensure transparent voting and a peaceful transfer of power by February 7, 2027.