Election Legislation Sent To Aristide

Parliament sent a law allowing new elections to President Jean-Bertrand Aristide on Saturday, a key step in Haiti’s return to democracy following three years of military rule.

The action came hours before the terms of almost every elected Haitian official - from senators to town councilors - expired. Pending new elections, Haiti is left without a legislative branch.

Election officials and international observers estimate they can organize balloting within three months after the election bill becomes law. That means local and legislative elections probably will be held in May.