Haitian poll a ‘success’

HAITIAN authorities have hailed the runoff presidential election as a success after voters decided whether a popular singer or a former first lady will lead the impoverished country.

There had been fears Sunday’s run-off, delayed for months by bickering over a violence-plagued first round in November, would be overshadowed by the return from exile of charismatic ex-president Jean-Bertrand Aristide.

But Aristide largely honoured a commitment not to upset the delicate political situation and voting was largely peaceful in the Caribbean nation.

Results of the second round are due on April 16.

The election pitted Mirlande Manigat, a former first lady, against Michel Martelly, a popular 50-year-old singer.