Haiti's Presidential Transition Falters Amid Gang Violence and Humanitarian Crisis
Port-au-Prince, Haiti - One year into its attempt to restore governance in Haiti, the country's transition government is facing unprecedented challenges. The Presidential Transitional Council (CPT), established by international partners after Prime Minister Ariel Henry was ousted by armed gangs, has failed to bring stability, leaving Haiti on the brink of total chaos.
The latest crisis updates suggest that gangs now control most of Port-au-Prince and significant parts of the country. Since 2021, over 15,000 people have been killed and a million forcibly displaced. The situation has severe humanitarian implications with more than half of the country facing acute food insecurity.
A UN report warns that Haiti may be reaching a point of no return and says that if nothing is done quickly and effectively, the country could fall into "total chaos."
Entrenched gang violence has emerged as a major obstacle to resolving the crisis. The G9 Alliance, led by former police officer Jimmy "Barbecue" Chérizier, presents itself as a revolutionary force but in reality, is seen as a violent criminal organization.
The group took power last year and forced Prime Minister Henry from office, following accusations of corruption. Despite efforts by international partners to quell the violence, gangs continue to control critical infrastructure and remain in control of fuel supplies.
The lack of progress has sparked international criticism. The US government recently designated two Haitian gangs as terrorist organizations, while others have imposed sanctions on politicians and gang leaders.
However, for residents of Port-au-Prince, life remains unchanged, where gangs hold the country hostage.
A common saying in Haiti now echoes a phrase: "peyi'm pa gen leta," or "my country has no state." The lack of effective governance institutions exacerbates this feeling. The CPT operates without a clear mandate, and internal conflicts have hindered efforts to address grievances.
Recent plans to rewrite the Haitian constitution further highlight the instability. Despite opposition from some groups, a proposal aims to fundamentally alter Haiti's government structure, including the abolition of certain institutions.
International responses to the crisis have been criticized as ineffective, treating specific symptoms while ignoring underlying causes. Many in Haiti attribute the current predicament to decades of international oversight, with some fearing that attempts at external intervention may further exacerbate the situation.
In essence, any hope for resolving this complex and deeply entrenched crisis depends on a shared effort from both the Haitian government and international partners.
"Haiti needs a sustainable path forward. To move beyond the current crisis, we need institutional reforms that ensure accountable governance," said Jean-Pierre Duvalier, a local resident.
As Haiti faces a dire humanitarian emergency and potential collapse into chaos, there is now growing urgency on the streets of Port-au-Prince.