Haiti’s Prime Minister Ariel Henry Resigns Amidst Escalating Unrest

In response to mounting pressure and escalating violence in Haiti, Prime Minister Ariel Henry has announced his resignation. The decision came after an emergency meeting of regional leaders in Jamaica, where discussions entered on facilitating a political transition in the troubled nation.

Mr. Henry finds himself stranded in Puerto Rico due to threats posed by armed gangs, preventing his return to Haiti. In a video statement, he urged Haitians to remain calm and assured them of a swift transition process.

The outgoing Prime Minister, who assumed leadership following the assassination of former President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021, had faced criticism for repeatedly delaying elections, citing the need to restore security. Many Haitians questioned the legitimacy of his interim governance without an elected president.

The streets of the capital, Port-au-Prince, have fallen under the control of heavily armed gangs, exacerbating the country’s instability. These groups have demanded Mr. Henry’s resignation, further fuelling the turmoil.

The situation in Haiti remains precarious, with widespread destruction of police stations and government buildings by the gangs. The country is under a state of emergency, and a curfew has been extended to maintain order.

The resignation of Mr. Henry was anticipated for several days, with regional leaders and the international community pressing for a transition to a more stable government. The Caricom group of Caribbean nations, along with the United States, deemed Mr. Henry’s leadership as an obstacle to Haiti’s stability.

Efforts are now underway to establish a transitional council, tasked with overseeing the appointment of an interim prime minister and preparing for upcoming elections. The council comprises representatives from various sectors, aiming to provide a broad-based approach to governance.

The United States has pledged additional support, including $100 million for a UN-backed security force to aid in stabilising Haiti and $30 million in humanitarian assistance. Regional leaders emphasise the urgency of restoring stability and normalcy to Haiti, the poorest country in the Western hemisphere.

As Haiti navigates this turbulent period, the focus remains on fostering a peaceful transition and laying the groundwork for democratic elections. The resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry marks a significant step towards addressing the country’s deep-rooted challenges and forging a path towards a more stable future.