The U.S. State Department has revised the Travel Alert (which was updated March 11, 2016) concerning the presidential election period in light of the announcement by Haiti’s Provisional Electoral Council of a new election calendar with a first round of elections on October 9, 2016 and a second round on January 8, 2017. This Travel Alert expires on February 15, 2017.

Haiti’s unfinished presidential electoral process has made the political and security environment more uncertain, with possible demonstrations causing disruption to traffic and access to key locations in Port-au-Prince.

Tensions remain high and we urge U.S. citizens to exercise caution and remain abreast of the security situation as the electoral process progresses. In addition to the dates mentioned above, possible points when demonstrations could occur include June 14, when the National Assembly is due to vote on the mandate of the Provisional President, and the dates on which provisional and definitive results of the above mentioned election rounds are announced.

During elections, restrictions on traffic circulation, either imposed by the authorities or caused by political rallies may be expected. As a general matter of emergency preparedness, U.S. citizens should maintain adequate supplies of food, water, essential medicines, and other supplies that will allow them to shelter in place for at least 72 hours.

HL/ HaitiLibre