Chaos in Haiti: President Steps Down Amid Escalating Gang Violence
Amid escalating gang violence and a nation teetering on the edge of collapse, Haiti's President, Ariel Henry, steps down from his embattled position. The Caribbean nation grapples with attacks on government institutions, painting a grim picture of a country in turmoil.
The leader of Haiti, Ariel Henry, has stepped down after facing increasing turmoil in the country. Gangs have been targeting government buildings, and the social order is in jeopardy.
Henry's resignation was confirmed by CARICOM officials on Monday night.
Guyana leader and current CARICOM President Irfaan Ali has acknowledged the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry following the formation of a transitional presidential council and the appointment of an interim prime minister.
According to the UN, CARICOM, a regional bloc consisting of 25 countries that focuses on economic integration, security, and social development, convened a meeting on Haiti in the Jamaican capital of Kingston on Monday.
When the worst of the violence broke out last week, Henry was in Kenya to finalize a deal to send 1,000 Kenyan police officers to Haiti in order to help regain control of the security situation.
Henry faced pressure from the US to reach a political agreement, but it remains uncertain who will take charge. One possible contender is Guy Philippe, a former rebel leader who was sent back to Haiti from the US for money laundering charges.
Henry, who took power in 2021 after the assassination of Haiti's president, postponed the elections that were supposed to take place last month. This move angered protesters who had been calling for his resignation as Haiti faced increasing poverty and violence from gangs.
After Henry's visit to Kenya, Port-au-Prince, the capital of Haiti, has experienced a series of organized attacks by gangs on law enforcement and government buildings. This has led to many people being forced to leave their homes for safety.
Haiti’s government has declared a state of emergency following an attack on the country’s largest prison in the capital, Port-Au-Prince. The armed groups killed and injured police and prison staff, resulting in the escape of around 3,500 inmates.
This is an ongoing situation. Stay tuned for updates.
Editor's P/S:
The turmoil in Haiti
