Haiti’s National Palace is surrounded by violence as gangs control most of the territory in the area. Despite the dangers, a transitional council is pushing for a ceremony to be held at the palace for the swearing in of a new prime minister and Cabinet for Haiti. The ceremony, scheduled for Wednesday, is seen as a show of force to demonstrate that the Haitian government is still in control, despite threats from gangs who continue to unleash violence in downtown Port-au-Prince. The ongoing violence in Port-au-Prince has resulted in a significant increase in deaths and injuries, with more than 2,500 people affected in the first few months of the year.
María Isabel Salvador, the U.N. special envoy for Haiti, has emphasized the need for assistance in reestablishing security in the country. Gangs, which now control 80% of Port-au-Prince, have unleashed coordinated attacks that have led to the burning of police stations and hospitals, attacks on the international airport, and prison breaks releasing thousands of inmates. The violence has forced many residents to flee their homes, with some now living in makeshift shelters near the National Palace, where sporadic gunfire is a constant threat. Despite the challenges, many believe that Haiti must move forward with the swearing in of the transitional council.
The transitional council consists of nine members, with seven having voting powers. The council includes representatives from various political parties and civil society groups. As preparations for the council’s installation continue, concerns about the safety of holding the ceremony at the National Palace persist. Regional officials have expressed doubts about the safety of the venue and are advocating for a safer location for the ceremony. The ongoing violence has impacted many aspects of daily life in Haiti, including the closure of schools and the displacement of residents who are living in fear of the constant threat of violence.
Many Haitians, such as Josil Djaimeska, have experienced the violence firsthand, with some sustaining injuries from stray bullets. The lack of security in the country has left many feeling unsafe and uncertain about the future. Despite these challenges, some, like Renoir Auxil, believe that Haiti must continue to move forward and fulfill the political process of swearing in the transitional council. The situation in Haiti has drawn international attention, with calls for assistance in restoring security and stability in the country. As the debate over the venue of the council swearing-in ceremony continues, the people of Haiti are left hoping for a resolution to the ongoing violence and a path towards a more secure future.
