In a determined attempt to reinstate security in the gang-besieged Caribbean nation, the Haitian government announced the official establishment of a nine-member transitional presidential council last Friday. Rezonodwes, a local news outlet, reports that this council intends to confront the escalating gang violence that is triggering widespread displacement and causing critical shortages of goods.
A recent human rights group report unveiled the terrifying aspects of this gang violence, which includes execution-style killings and creating an atmosphere of terror across the country. The transitional council is faced with the challenging task of extending the deployment of international troops to support local law enforcement agencies battling these heavily-armed gangs.
Data suggests that more than 95,000 residents have fled Port-au-Prince’s metropolitan area in recent weeks as a result of the ravaging gang attacks, forcing survivors to find refuge elsewhere. However, this pivotal move towards establishing the transitional presidential council isn’t without its issues. The official decree issued lacks crucial details such as the identity of its members, a defined timeline for their installation, and clarity on replacing Prime Minister Ariel Henry. It’s worth noting that, for now, the decree allows the Prime Minister to retain initial oversight, stressing cooperation between the council and Prime Minister to establish an inclusive, new cabinet.
Despite the positive strides towards transitional governance, this nascent council will face considerable hurdles. Delays in formalizing council members and potential power conflicts could inhibit progress towards stability. Furthermore, there may be legal and procedural obstacles in verifying the eligibility of council candidates, potentially prolonging the transition process. Activists like Jean Saint-Vil stress that foreign and local politicians continue to work towards stalling the transition.
While addressing transitional governance, Canada’s current ambassador to the United Nations, Bob Rae recently highlighted in an interview with JURIST, the need to collaborate with all Haitian political actors to build stronger common institutions, enhance the security situation and foster a democratic and human rights environment. Rae’s views underline the significant role international cooperation can play in driving Haiti’s path towards stability.