Haitian prime minister to resign amid rising gang violence

Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry, speaking from Puerto Rico, announced his intention to resign after the formation of a transitional presidential council. The announcement followed a high-level meeting in Jamaica that included members of the Caribbean trade bloc and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

“The government that I’m running cannot remain insensitive in front of this situation. There is no sacrifice that is too big for our country,” Henry said. “The government I’m running will remove itself immediately after the installation of the council.”

The leaders gathered to discuss the increasing violence in Haiti, where criminal gangs have seized control of a large part of the capital city, impacting international travel. Due to security concerns, Henry has been unable to return to Haiti and remains in Puerto Rico. However, the U.S. Territory’s Department of State indicated he plans to return once conditions allow.

A presidential council is poised to replace Henry, comprising two observers and seven voting members from various sectors, including political coalitions, the business community, civil society, and a religious leader. This council is tasked with appointing an interim prime minister swiftly; however, those planning to run in Haiti’s upcoming elections are ineligible to participate.

Since early 2023, Haiti has been without elected representatives, and the forthcoming elections will be the first since 2016. Many Haitians view Henry as corrupt, criticizing him for repeatedly delaying elections under the pretext of restoring security first.

In response to the crisis, Blinken has pledged an additional $100 million to support the deployment of a multinational force in Haiti, along with $33 million in humanitarian aid. A joint proposal, designed to hasten the political transition and set up a “presidential college,” has received backing from Caribbean leaders and Haitian stakeholders alike.