Haiti's Provisional Electoral Council announced on Wednesday that the first round of presidential and legislative elections will take place on July 18, 2027, with a second round scheduled for October 4.

The move postpones the vote from its previous target of December 13, 2026. It marks the latest in a series of delays for what would be Haiti's first national elections since 2016.

Officials extended candidate registration deadlines as part of the revised calendar. Presidential and legislative candidate registration now runs through November 15, while local office seekers have until November 30. The final list of qualifying candidates is set for release on December 4. Voter registration will continue through May 19, 2027.

The announcement comes amid persistent gang violence that has disrupted daily life across much of the country. Armed groups have intensified attacks in recent weeks, including assaults in the Lower Artibonite region since October 19. Security conditions remain a primary obstacle to holding credible elections.

Haiti has operated under transitional governance following the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse. The country has faced repeated setbacks in restoring elected institutions, with earlier proposed dates including August 2026 and December 2026 falling by the wayside due to insecurity and logistical challenges.

International efforts, including a UN-authorized Gang Suppression Force, have deployed limited personnel to support stabilization. Observers note that widespread gang control over territory continues to hinder voter access and campaign activities in key areas.

The new timeline aims to allow more preparation time while addressing technical and operational requirements outlined in recent electoral decrees. Final results are expected in late October 2027.