The former first lady Mirlande Manigat and the popular musician Michel Martelly are contesting tomorrow's run-off round of presidential elections, four months after the first round was staged. Legislative elections are also being held tomorrow.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Mr. Ban stressed his hope that 'a calm and peaceful atmosphere' prevails during voting.

'The Secretary-General calls on the Haitian authorities, the candidates, their supporters and the population as a whole to ensure that Sunday's vote provides the political stability Haiti requires for its recovery, reconstruction and long-term development.'

The UN peacekeeping mission in Haiti, known as MINUSTAH, issued a similar call earlier this week and underscored the need for all sides to refrain from violence or any acts of harassment or intimidation.