Haiti

Abstract

The Republic of Haiti, formerly a French colony, was proclaimed independent January 1, 1804, and is now governed under a Constitution proclaimed June 14, 1867. The legislative power rests in a National Assembly, divided into two chambel’s, respectively called the Senate and the House of Representatives. The latter is elected by the direct vote of all male citizens engaged in some occupation, for the term of three years; while the members of the Senate (39 in number) are nominated for six years by the House of Representatives from two lists presented by the Executive and the Electoral Colleges; one-third retire every two years. Members of both houses are paid, representatives and senators by the month (150 dollars) during session. The executive power is in the hands of a President who, according to the Constitution, must be elected by the people, but in recent years has generally been chosen by the United Senate and House of Representatives, sitting in National Assembly, and in some instances by the troops, and by delegates of parties acting as representatives of the people. The nominal term of office of the President is seven years; it is generally cut short, however by insurrections.