By Wasana Nadeeshani Sellahewa
Commonwealth _ The situation in Haiti has raised significant alarm as the United Nations expresses profound concern over the rapidly deteriorating security conditions. Particularly noteworthy is the escalation of ongoing gang violence and clashes between police forces in various areas of the capital, Port-au-Prince.
UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric reported that the Haitian National Police successfully fended off coordinated gang attacks aimed at critical infrastructure, including the national airport. Despite this resilience, distressing reports have emerged regarding gangs breaching and looting Port-au-Prince’s seaport. This unsettling development has led to the suspension of operations at the port for an extended period, further intensifying concerns about the overall security landscape.
The gravity of the situation underscores the challenges faced by both local and international authorities in maintaining stability and protecting vital assets. The United Nations remains actively engaged in monitoring and addressing these security issues, emphasizing the need for concerted efforts to address the root causes of violence and restore a sense of safety and order in Haiti.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres reiterated his call for the government and all national stakeholders to agree on immediate measures to advance the political process leading to elections. Additionally, he emphasized the urgent need for international action, including immediate financial support for the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, crucial for addressing insecurity in Haiti.
Dujarric disclosed that the UN Chef de Cabinet had received an invitation to attend a meeting organized by the regional body, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), scheduled for Monday in Kingston, Jamaica. The meeting aims to bolster support for the swift restoration of democratic institutions in Haiti.
In a statement issued on Friday, the UN Country Team highlighted the reduction or suspension of gender-based violence protection and services due to security and access concerns. If violence persists in the capital area, an estimated 3,000 pregnant women could be denied access to essential healthcare.
On Thursday, the United Nations reported a significant humanitarian effort in Haiti, where the World Food Program (WFP) and its collaborating partners successfully delivered food to over 7,000 people. This initiative addresses the pressing issue of food security amid the ongoing challenges faced by the country.
Adding to the diplomatic front, the United States Department of State disclosed on Friday that Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken engaged in discussions with Haitian Prime Minister Dr. Ariel Henry. The focus of the conversation revolved around the multifaceted crisis in Haiti, encompassing political, security, and humanitarian dimensions.
These international efforts underscore the collaborative response to the crisis, as both the United Nations and the United States contribute their resources and engage in dialogue with Haitian authorities. The coordinated actions aim to alleviate immediate humanitarian concerns and address the underlying issues contributing to the complex situation in Haiti. The involvement of key diplomatic channels reflects the global commitment to finding sustainable solutions to the challenges facing the nation.
Over the past year, the United States has encouraged Prime Minister Henry and other key stakeholders in Haiti to reach a compromise that would end the political stalemate. State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller stated that the political crisis, coupled with escalating violence and civil unrest, has created an untenable situation threatening the safety and security of the country’s citizens.
During the conversation, Secretary Blinken expressed support for a proposal developed in collaboration with CARICOM and Haitian stakeholders. The proposal aims to expedite a political transition through the creation of a broad-based, independent presidential college, steering the country toward the deployment of a Multinational Security Support mission and facilitating free and fair elections.
Miller emphasized that the Secretary urged Prime Minister Henry to endorse this proposal, emphasizing its importance in restoring peace and stability to Haiti. This would enable the Haitian people to resume their daily lives free from violence and despair. The international community, including the UN and the United States, remains deeply committed to addressing the crisis in Haiti and supporting efforts to bring about positive change.
