May 1st 2024.
In a move to restore stability to the country, Haiti's Transitional Council has announced their selection for the next Prime Minister. This decision came after months of turmoil and violence following the assassination of President Jovenel Möise in 2021. Fritz Bélizaire, a former minister of sport, has been chosen for the role, surprising many members of the council who were not familiar with him.
The country's gangs, who have formed a loose alliance, have been demanding a seat at the table and have even threatened violence if their voices are not heard. Two gang leaders, Vitel’homme Innocent and Jimmy “Barbeque” Cherizier, have made statements warning of consequences if their demands are not met.
In a recent interview with CNN, Innocent expressed regret for involving his gang, Kraze Baryé, in Haitian politics. He acknowledged his role in directing the group but also pointed out that they may not have the knowledge or understanding to choose their targets. He also alluded to the fact that the power structure in Haiti remains unchanged, regardless of who is in charge.
Meanwhile, Cherizier took to social media to declare that the gang alliance, Viv Ansanm, must be taken seriously. He warned that they will not back down until they are given a seat at the table and their demands are met. This has caused division among Haitians, with some questioning whether the transitional council will truly be able to bring peace to the country.
According to experts in Haitian politics, the task ahead for Bélizaire and the council is daunting. The country's largest seaport is currently under the control of gangs, and the capital city, Port-au-Prince, has been largely under their jurisdiction since February. Robert Fatton, an expert in Haitian politics, believes that the council's solutions will fail if the security situation does not improve.
During the swearing-in ceremony for Bélizaire, interim Prime Minister Michel Boisvert addressed the council, acknowledging the challenges they face. He reminded them that the people of Haiti have high expectations and that security is just one of the many pressing issues that need to be addressed.
However, not all Haitians are optimistic about the council's ability to bring change. As reported by the Associated Press, one man passing by on his motorcycle shouted, "Thieves and gangs! That's all they are!" expressing his distrust and disappointment in the government.
The road ahead for Haiti is long and difficult, and the transitional council has a lot on their plate. The success of their efforts will depend on their ability to address the country's security issues and gain the trust of the Haitian people. As experts have cautioned, time is of the essence, and the council must act swiftly if they want to see results.
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