24 hours prior to the publication of the final results of the first round of elections, UN expects obviously serious and important social unrest in Haiti if we refer to a note sent to its staff :

Situation :

The announcement of the result of the presidential elections is expected to take place on Wednesday, 2nd February 2011. This may impact on the security situation in Haiti and on UN staff and operations.

Movement restriction :

In case the security situation deteriorates a "Restrictions of Movement" may be put in place, which will only allow a few essential movements. Staff members will be not allowed to travel to the beaches or to other leisure locations.

Preparations :

Critical Staff :

• All designated "Critical Staff" may be requested to stay in the office for several days without having the opportunity to travel to their residence starting morning of the 02nd February. Therefore, all Critical Staff is requested to make preparations to have their 15Kg Emergency Bag with sufficient supplies, sleeping bag, change of clothing and toiletries at hand.

  International and National staff :

• Those staff members that are NOT determined "Critical Staff" may be requested to stay at their residence until further notice. Staff members must ensure that they have adequate supplies (food, water, and gas, medications) to last for one week at least.

  Vehicles :

• Ensure that vehicles are in good order & fully fuelled and the radio is working. All UN vehicles, especially during the night, have to be parked in secured compounds.

Upon reading the note and without wishing to dramatize the risks of the situation ahead, we urge our compatriots to take the precautions imposed by a situation "highly explosive" whose nobody can predict the consequences.

See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-2231-haiti-elections-date-of-final-results-and-2nd-round-schedule.html

HL/ HaitiLibre