The 1987 Constitution of Haiti has been amended. In fact, parliament has just voted a long list of amendments. The amendments are available here in French. They are taken from the Haitian official journal, Le Moniteur.

The amendment process was chaotic. The process had to be completed by 13th May, the last day of president Préval’s term of office, otherwise there could be no changes until 2015. There was a debate on 8th and 9th May. In the end, the bill was finally passed just before midnight on the 13th.

According to reports, the debate was extremely fierce. In particular, an amendment was introduced at the very end and in somewhat strange circumstances which would have allowed the president to serve for two terms. However, the proposal was defeated.

The amendments make it slightly more difficult for the parliament to dismiss the government. However, the PM still needs the approval of parliament to be appointed. There are plenty of other changes including a 30% quota of female candidates for political parties.

There are reports that the amendments will not be published in Creole. This would give Haiti two constitutions.