Michel Martelly registers as presidential candidate in Haiti

Former Haitian President Michel Martelly has officially registered as a preliminary candidate for the upcoming presidential elections. His registration was completed online under the Debloke political coalition, a group composed of former members of the Haitian Tet Kale Party (PHTK). Martelly, also known by his stage name ‘Sweet Micky’, is one of 16 presidential aspirants currently registered with the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP).

Martelly’s bid comes despite international sanctions imposed by the United States, Canada, and the European Union. These sanctions are linked to allegations of involvement with drug trafficking and the financing of armed gangs to further political and economic interests. While Martelly has denied these accusations, the possibility of his return to power has drawn criticism from various sectors of the Haitian population and the diaspora.

The registration process follows recent changes to Haiti’s electoral decree. The CEP and transitional authorities modified the rules to relax requirements for presidential and parliamentary candidates, including the removal of a mandatory certification from the Bank of the Republic of Haiti. This change has raised concerns regarding the ability of sanctioned individuals to participate in public office. The CEP must still validate all candidacies through a review of required documentation at departmental electoral offices.