The move followed violent protests since December 7 by supporters of popular musician and presidential candidate Michel Martelly, who was eliminated from a deciding run-off in results released by the Provisional Electoral Council.

At least four people were killed in this week's unrest, which has dimmed international hopes that the UN-backed elections held on November 28 could create stability for Haiti as it struggles to recover from a devastating January earthquake.

In a statement, the electoral council said the review by a special commission, including international observers, would verify tally sheets of votes cast for the top three contenders -- Mirlande Manigat, Jude Celestin and Martelly.

Representatives of all three candidates said they welcomed the electoral authority's initiative to clear up doubts about the results.

The council's preliminary results from the November 28 elections were released late on December 7 and showed former first lady Manigat and government technocrat Celestin going through to a final decisive presidential run-off in January.