Haiti’s Prime Minister Ariel Henry has yielded to mounting pressure and escalating violence by agreeing to step down, following discussions among regional leaders in Jamaica regarding a political transition in the country.
Stranded in Puerto Rico due to armed gangs blocking his return, Henry urged Haitians to remain calm in a video address announcing his resignation, stating, “The government that I am leading will resign immediately after the installation of [a transition] council.”
He acknowledged the opportunity he had been given and called for peace and stability to be restored swiftly.
Having governed since July 2021 after the assassination of former President Jovenel Moïse, Henry faced criticism for delaying elections, citing the need to restore security first.
The unelected prime minister’s prolonged tenure raised concerns among Haitians, especially amid recent unrest where armed gangs demanded his resignation.
Port-au-Prince, gripped by armed groups, declared a month-long state of emergency with an extended curfew.
Matthias Pierre, a former elections minister, described the situation in Haiti as “very precarious,” emphasizing the weakness of law enforcement, destruction of police stations, and occupation of government buildings by gangs.
He noted the urgent need for basic necessities like food and medical supplies.
Henry’s resignation, anticipated for days, was precipitated by pressure from the Caricom group and the United States, which viewed him as an obstacle to stability.
Despite initial US hopes for his return to oversee the transition, ongoing violence led to a change in stance.
A senior US official disclosed Henry’s decision to step down on Friday, waiting for an official announcement to facilitate discussions.
The White House pledged an additional $100 million to support a UN-backed security force led by Kenya in Haiti, bringing the US contribution to $300 million, with extra funds allocated for humanitarian aid.
Caricom’s chairman, President Irfaan Ali, confirmed Henry’s resignation upon the establishment of a transitional presidential council, tasked with swiftly appointing an interim prime minister and organizing upcoming elections.
The council, comprising representatives from various sectors, aims to pave the way for Haiti’s first elections since 2016.
Source-BBC
