OAS chief Ramdin warns against electoral participation by those linked to gangs
The Organization of American States secretary general said anyone tied to criminal organizations should be barred from Haiti's vote.
Organization of American States Secretary General Albert Ramdin said that any person with links to criminal organizations should not be allowed to take part in Haiti's elections, according to Le Nouvelliste. Ramdin made the remarks during a press conference on Friday, September 11, 2026. "Whether at the presidential, local or legislative level, my position is very clear: any person with links to criminal organizations should not be allowed to take part in the vote," Ramdin said, as quoted by the outlet. He added that the means of verifying such links falls to Haitian authorities. The comments come amid ongoing discussions over Haiti's electoral process, with the OAS previously addressing the timing of elections and continued support for the country. According to Le Nouvelliste, Ramdin has separately called for reinforcing international assistance to Haiti and affirmed member states' support for the renewal of a security force. The full context of Ramdin's remarks and any accompanying vetting mechanisms were not detailed in the available excerpt. The statement underscores international concern over the influence of armed groups on Haiti's political landscape ahead of anticipated polls.