As expected, the Provisional Electoral Council published a new version of the electoral calendar on Wednesday, October 28, 2026. According to the new calendar, the ongoing electoral process will be completed in exactly one year, in October 2027. The first round of elections is set for July 18, 2027, and the second round of presidential and legislative elections is scheduled for October 4, 2027. 

Before the publication of the new electoral calendar, the CEP had already made decisions that made it almost impossible to adhere to the electoral schedule, notably holding the first round of voting on December 13. By revising the electoral calendar, the CEP gives itself time to prepare for the elections. This also applies to the government, which is responsible for creating the necessary security conditions for the smooth running of the vote. 

The new electoral calendar also provides time for national security forces - the PNH and the FAD'H - to enhance their capabilities in the fight against gangs. In the meantime, the Gang Task Force should complete its deployment across the country. One can also mention the significant deployment of soldiers from El Salvador in Haiti as part of the operation to locate technicians missing since October 18, 2026, in the Plain. Thus, the government and its international allies will no longer have any excuses if they do not create the conditions for holding elections. 

By publishing the new electoral calendar, the CEP confirms that the first round of elections will not take place in December. However, it has not put an end to the criticisms regarding the recent modifications made to the electoral calendar, particularly concerning those individuals sanctioned by the international community for their alleged role in destabilizing the country. Will the government ignore these criticisms? Should we expect a new version of the electoral decree? 

With the first round of elections set for July 18, 2027, the CEP and the government still have time to address these questions. The credibility of the upcoming elections depends on it.