It is proving difficult to appoint a new prime minister in two semi-presidential countries at the moment.

In Haiti the search for a prime minister goes on. President Préval has nominated one of his advisers, Robert Manuel, as prime minister. However, more than 10 days after the announcement, prime minister-designate M. Manuel is no closer to being approved. On 7 June he placed his personal credentials before parliament. It was at this stage that his predecessor-designate (as it were) was rejected. No vote has yet taken places as regards M. Manuel. Remember that a vote has to be taken as to his appointment and then a further vote as to his general policy declaration and the two in both houses. Haitipressnetwork implies that members of the lower house responded less than enthusiastically to M. Manuel’s nomination.

In Sao Tome the search for a prime minister is also proving difficult. As it stands, President de Menezes has not dissolved parliament. He seems to be trying to find a compromise candidate for prime minister in a government of national unity. Recall that there are four parties in parliament and that the former coalition partner, the PCD, joined the MLSTP/PSD opposition to vote the previous prime minister out of office. Afriqueenligne suggests that President de Menezes is trying to rebuild the previous coalition and/or to include the MLSTP/PSD in the government. The MLSTP/PSD is not giving any indication that this scenario is likely to happen. Moreover, the MDFM and ADI coalition partners are equally wary of rejoining an alliance with the PCD.