(Le Floridien) — A coalition of countries from the Caribbean, North America, and Europe has convened an urgent summit to address the escalating crisis in Haiti, as gang activity threatens to overpower the country’s already troubled leadership. This crucial meeting, initiated by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in Kingston, Jamaica, comes amid the evacuation of more international diplomats from Haiti, including staff from the European Union and non-essential personnel from the United States.
The current CARICOM chair, President Mohamed Irfaan Ali of Guyana, highlighted the ongoing discussions aimed at achieving stability in Haiti. However, he pointed out the Haitian stakeholders’ failure to reach the necessary consensus for progress. Ali emphasized the urgency of finding a solution, noting the adverse effects of delay.
The situation intensified on February 29, with gangs targeting essential government facilities in Port-au-Prince, amidst Prime Minister Ariel Henry’s absence abroad. Henry was seeking support for a Kenya-led international police force to help quell the unrest. His return has been thwarted by gang-controlled airports, forcing him to land in Puerto Rico after being turned away by the Dominican Republic.
Jimmy “Barbecue” Cherizier, a leading gang figure, has issued a stark warning of potential civil war and genocide unless Henry steps down. Gangs now have a tight grip on Port-au-Prince and critical transport routes, escalating their assault by attacking police stations, shutting down airports, and orchestrating mass prison breaks, freeing over 4,000 detainees.
This recent wave of violence has resulted in numerous deaths and displaced over 15,000 people. Additionally, the looting of Haiti’s main port exacerbates the looming humanitarian crisis, with the health infrastructure teetering on the verge of collapse, as reported by the United Nations.
The United States, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken attending the Kingston summit, advocates for Henry to facilitate a political transition alongside the deployment of an international force to reinstate peace. This call for action follows Henry’s ascension to power after the assassination of Prime Minister Jovenel Moise in 2021.
Le Floridien and News Agencies
