There has been a surge of political activity ahead of Haiti’s first general election in a decade, with a record 280 parties registering by the deadline. New groups expressed hope that fresh leadership could help address the country’s deep crises, driven by gang violence and corruption. One party arrived for registration with a marching band and vuvuzelas; another, led by former prime minister Claude Joseph, was more sober, but equally committed to the need to break cycles of political instability. Despite this momentum, uncertainty remains over whether elections will proceed as planned. Ongoing insecurity continues to disrupt daily life, with widespread violence, thousands of deaths, and mass displacement. Armed groups control much of the capital, raising concerns about whether safe campaigning and voting are possible. Even so, some leaders insist that moving forward with elections is essential for the nation’s future and a step toward restoring order and public trust. The electoral council says it will post a list of parties authorised to participate in the election by 26 March.