PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) — Ahead of an international conference on Haiti led by his country, Canada’s ambassador to the Caribbean nation has called for a politically “inclusive” deal to resolve the deep constitutional crisis that has ensued. the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse on July 7.

In an interview in Port-au-Prince, diplomat Sébastien Carrière expressed concern about deteriorating security in Haiti, which will be a central theme of Friday’s virtual meeting. The meeting will bring together ministers from Canada, the United States and France, among other nations, and will be led by Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly.

“Canada is extremely concerned about the security situation” in Haiti, Carrière told The Associated Press.

The diplomat added that the crisis is complex and multidimensional, with economic, humanitarian and security aspects, as well as an imminent deadline to establish a permanent president. Quoting figures from the United Nations, he pointed out that “4.6 million Haitians live in conditions of humanitarian emergency”.

The Canadian government believes elections in Haiti are inevitable, given the country’s institutional collapse, but, like many, does not know when they will take place.

“Canada believes that security must be restored before elections are held… In the current context, it would be very difficult to hold elections, especially with contradictory political agreements,” he said.

The murder of Moïse complicated what was already a fragile political situation in Haiti. He had sparked controversy by claiming his term would end on February 7, 2022. Shortly before his death, the president appointed current Prime Minister Ariel Henry to the post, and many experts believe Henry’s term should also end. finish February 7.

To make matters worse, Haiti’s legislative and judicial branches, as well as the executive, are also facing crises of legitimacy.

Various sectors of Haitian society are calling for “agreements” that would allow for a consensual mandate for the country while waiting to renew its institutions in an electoral process.

Henry himself claims to have spearheaded such an agreement, called the “9/11 deal”. Conflicting proposals have also been drawn up in recent months. The main rival of the Henry Colony is known as the “Colony of Montana”.

Canada will not side with either side in the confrontation that seems to be looming between the Henry government and sectors of civil society, Carrière said.

“If we have a preference, it’s for everyone to be under one agreement,” he said, and asked for there to be one that was inclusive.

The Canadian government wants the pact to be finalized preferably before February 7. Henry’s fragile legitimacy risks being further questioned after this date.