After Henry’s resignation in Haiti, what’s next?

After nearly two weeks of increased gang violence and instability in Haiti, Prime Minister Ariel Henry has pledged to resign. Civil society leaders welcomed his resignation but are now questioning what comes next in a country plagued by corruption and failed institutions. The capital city, West Department, remains tense amid ongoing gang violence. Transitional plans are being put in place, but the path forward is unclear, with armed groups and international pressures complicating the situation.

Haitian armed groups have launched attacks on state institutions, causing fear and unrest among residents. It is uncertain how the groups will respond to Henry’s resignation and the transitional plan put forth by CARICOM. The involvement of foreign powers and the proposed international security mission led by Kenya and backed by the UN raise concerns about the legitimacy of the transition process. The makeup of the transitional council and the exclusion of those opposed to the mission further complicate the political landscape in Haiti.

Analysts stress the importance of understanding how Haiti reached this point in order to move forward. Henry, an unelected leader, should have never been supported by foreign powers, according to experts. Calls for a representative council to guide the country towards elections have been ignored, leading to a political stalemate. The current crisis underscores the need for Haitians to be involved at every step of the political process to ensure a democratic transition based on the will of the people.

The violence in Port-au-Prince has led to a humanitarian crisis, with gangs controlling large parts of the city and internal displacement affecting thousands. The urgent priority is to restore security and access to basic necessities like food and water. A rights-based approach is needed to avoid the pitfalls of past governments that maintained ties with armed groups for political gain. Programmes to support victims of violence and decisions on the country’s political future must be made with clarity, morality, and the best interests of the Haitian people in mind.

The next steps for Haiti remain uncertain as the country navigates a transition period following Henry’s resignation. The involvement of armed groups, international pressures, and the need for security and stability in the face of ongoing violence pose significant challenges. However, the focus must be on empowering and representing the Haitian people in the political process to ensure a democratic and sustainable future for the country. Foreign countries involved in the discussions must act with transparency, morality, and a genuine commitment to the well-being of the Haitian population as they navigate a critical moment in the country’s history.