Creation of council in Haiti hindered by death threats and security concerns

The creation of a transitional presidential council in Haiti, responsible for choosing the country’s new leader, has been hindered by death threats and security concerns. The council has yet to be sworn in due to worries about the safety of its members, amidst ongoing gang violence and attacks in the capital city of Port-au-Prince. The delayed establishment of the council has prompted meetings with Caribbean leaders and officials from the US, Canada, and France in an effort to address the situation.

Since February 29, gunmen have carried out a series of violent attacks in Haiti, including burning police stations, storming prisons, and releasing over 4,000 inmates. The escalating violence has resulted in numerous deaths and forced thousands of people to flee the capital. The uncertainty surrounding the formation of the council has added to the chaos, with one member resigning due to political attacks and death threats, only to be quickly replaced.

The Montana Accord, a group of civil society leaders with a seat on the council, expressed support for the member who resigned and denounced the use of fear and terror in Haitian politics. While efforts are being made to address the security concerns and threats faced by council members, the timing of the council’s formal announcement remains unclear. The hope is that once the council selects a new leader and appoints a council of ministers, gang violence will subside and stability can be restored to the country.

Despite some recent subsiding of gang violence, incidents such as the burning of a large garage in Port-au-Prince continue to disrupt the lives of Haitian citizens. Many have lost their belongings and livelihoods as a result of the ongoing insecurity. Concerns have been raised about the role of political actors in influencing gang behavior and using violence for political purposes. The delay in establishing new leadership for Haiti highlights the conflicts and power struggles within the country’s political arena, perpetuating a cycle of instability and violence.

As Haiti grapples with the challenges of forming a transitional council amidst widespread violence and security concerns, international support and cooperation have become crucial. The involvement of regional organizations and foreign governments underscores the seriousness of the situation and the need for a stable and legitimate government to be established. The ongoing turmoil in Haiti serves as a stark reminder of the complex political dynamics and security issues facing the country, as efforts to navigate towards a peaceful and democratic transition remain fraught with obstacles.