UNITED NATIONS — United Nations (UN)Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has expressed concern over growing political uncertainty in Haiti, urging the two candidates in the presidential run-off to help the electoral process move forward while preserving the French-speaking Caribbean’s democratic gains.

“The secretary-general is concerned over the growing political uncertainty in Haiti, following the publication of the results of the October 25 elections,” which included the first round of presidential polls, according to a statement issued through Ban’s spokesperson.

Ban noted efforts by all stakeholders — including the establishment of an electoral evaluation commission on December 16 ­— to address the concerns of opposition parties and ensure the successful and timely conclusion of the presidential elections.

He, however, stressed “the responsibility of all political actors to discourage violence and encourage a spirit of unity throughout the country”.

Opposition parties have alleged that the polls have been rigged in favour of the government’s candidate and have taken to the streets demanding the resignation of members of the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) that oversees the polls.

According to the statement, the UN chief “calls for the urgent intensification of dialogue to ensure the transfer of power through elections, within the constitutional time frame, maintain stability and preserve the country’s democratic gains.

“The secretary general urges the two candidates in the presidential run-off to engage in good faith with the relevant institutions to identify and implement measures to help the process move forward,” the statement said.

According to reports, the run-off had been set for December 27 between Jovenel Moïse from the governing party and former government executive Jude Célestin, but the election has been postponed until further notice.

At the same time, the UN chief reaffirmed the commitment of the UN Stabilisation Mission in Haiti and the entire UN system to “continue supporting the Haitian people in the fulfilment of their democratic aspirations”.