In a recent turn of events, gang violence in Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince, has reached alarming levels as a shooting resulted in the death of a gang leader. The police operation targeted the head of the Delmas 95 gang, Ernst Julme, also known as Ti Greg, dealing a blow to the gangs attempting to take control of the city.
Meanwhile, political groups are on the verge of finalizing a transition council to assume presidential powers after Prime Minister Ariel Henry’s resignation. The council aims to unite Haiti’s fractured political factions and appoint a successor to Henry. The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) played a crucial role in brokering the transition plan in Jamaica.
Tensions continue to escalate in the suburbs, with heavy gunfire near the National Palace and shootings prompting residents to flee in Petion-Ville. A civilian vigilante movement called Bwa Kale has resurfaced, targeting suspected gang members and resorting to extreme measures like killing and setting them on fire.
Despite Prime Minister Henry’s request for an international security mission in 2022, the plans remain on hold. The deployment of an international force is seen as essential in addressing the political and security challenges in Haiti. As a result of the escalating violence, the United Nations and other international organizations have evacuated their staff and foreigners from Haiti, with assistance from the US and Canada in evacuating their citizens. The situation in Haiti remains precarious, with hopes pinned on the implementation of a transitional council and potential international intervention to bring stability to the troubled nation.
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