By Le Floridien
In Haiti, where violence and insecurity have become a daily reality, the influence and audacity of gang leaders like Jimmy Chérizier, alias “Barbecue,” continue to grow unchecked. Barbecue, a former police officer, is now a notorious gang leader. His power extends far beyond the streets. Barbecue’s threats have infiltrated journalism, placing well-known Haitian reporters in grave danger.
On Sunday, October 20, 2024, during a TikTok live session, members of the gang coalition known as “Viv Ansanm,” led by Barbecue, issued direct threats against several prominent Haitian journalists. Among those targeted were Guerrier Dieuseul, Johnny Ferdinand, Loucko Désir, and Essaue César. These journalists have been vocal in their criticism of the increasing gang violence that is destabilizing the country. Barbecue’s response to their reporting has been swift and dangerous: threats of violence aimed directly at them.
This alarming situation was brought to light by Radio Télé Métronome, which not only revealed the threats but also called for immediate protection of journalists in Haiti. The brazen nature of these threats demonstrates Barbecue’s boldness, as he even urged another gang leader, Vitelhomme Innocent, to target journalists Guerrier Dieuseul and Johnny Ferdinand specifically.
This is not the first time Barbecue has used violence to silence voices in the media. He previously admitted to orchestrating the kidnapping of Lucien Jura, a former journalist, showing that his control extends to organizing high-profile attacks on media personnel. Such acts underscore the vulnerability of Haitian journalists, who are being targeted for merely doing their jobs—reporting on the country’s descent into chaos.
Jimmy Chérizier’s Growing Influence in Haiti
Barbecue’s threats and actions paint a chilling picture of the power dynamics in Haiti today. Gangs like his operate with near impunity, capable of striking fear into the heart of the nation’s media. Barbecue’s intimidation tactics show just how much influence he has. He is not just a criminal; he is a key figure in the violence.
Radio Télé Métronome’s call for action is urgent and necessary. The station has urged local authorities, the diplomatic corps, and international organizations to take immediate steps to protect the journalists who are now living under threat. The freedom of the press, a cornerstone of any democratic society, is at risk in Haiti, where threats and intimidation against reporters are becoming the norm.
Without concrete action, the situation will only worsen. Journalists, who play a critical role in informing the public and holding power to account, cannot work under the constant threat of violence. Barbecue’s willingness to publicly target members of the media shows just how far his influence reaches. He operates as if above the law, with no fear of repercussions from local authorities.
The international community, along with Haitian officials, must recognize the gravity of this situation and take swift measures to protect journalists and restore some semblance of safety and freedom in the country. As long as figures like Barbecue are allowed to threaten and act against journalists without consequence, Haiti’s future remains precarious, with its free press in constant peril.
The world is watching, but more importantly, so are the people of Haiti, who depend on these brave journalists to shine a light on the darkest corners of their reality. The time to act is now—before Barbecue’s threats become deadly actions.
