UN mission objects to exclusion of Haitian parties

The United Nations peacekeeping mission in Haiti wants local officials to justify a ban on 17 political groups from participating in next year\'s legislative council elections.



The mission\'s statement follows an announcement from the electoral council saying the groups, including the Lavalas party of former president Jean-Bertrand Aristide, will not be allowed to contest the elections.



Mr Aristide has called the decision an electoral coup d\'etat.



The UN Mission asked that Haitian officials avoid making decisions that might be considered unequal treatment.



It also requested that officials review documents from all parties with openness and equality.