(Commonwealth_ At the conclusion of the 47th regular meeting of CARICOM leaders, Fils expressed gratitude for the regional countries’ efforts in stabilizing Haiti, especially after the assassination of President Jovenel Moise on July 7, 2021. He specifically thanked CARICOM and the Eminent Persons Group (EPG) for negotiating with the former government of Prime Minister Dr. Ariel Henry and opposition groups, which led to the establishment of a transitional government and the appointment of a prime minister.
Fils outlined plans for Haiti’s future, stating that the transitional electoral process will be implemented, allowing for general elections by the end of next year. He also highlighted the launch of a national conference to review and possibly redefine the Constitution, aiming to improve the relationship between the state and the population. Amidst ongoing violence in the capital and other regions, Fils emphasized Haiti’s determination to overcome these challenges. He acknowledged the support of Kenyan police officers deployed under a United Nations mission to combat armed gangs causing turmoil in the country. Fils extended appreciation to Kenya’s President William Ruto, as well as Benin, Jamaica, and other nations supporting the anti-gang efforts.
CARICOM chairman and host Prime Minister, Dickon Mitchell, affirmed CARICOM’s commitment to helping Haiti. He noted that the Transitional Presidential Council (TPC) is initiating steps to pave the way for future elections. Mitchell expressed deep concern over the humanitarian crisis in Haiti, with many displaced people lacking access to adequate food. CARICOM pledged to provide humanitarian aid to Haiti in collaboration with international partners. Mitchell praised the EPG, comprising former prime ministers Dr. Kenny Anthony of St. Lucia, Perry Christie of the Bahamas, and Jamaica’s Bruce Golding, for their efforts in supporting Haiti’s quest for a homegrown solution. The EPG has been invited to visit Haiti in August to engage with various groups and sectors and report back to CARICOM on the situation.
Fils reported progress in joint operations involving the National Police, the Haitian military, and international forces, including Kenyan troops. These efforts have reclaimed territories around key areas such as the General Hospital in Port-au-Prince, facilitating the return of essential services. He noted signs of normalcy returning in parts of the metropolitan area and other major cities, with an improving economic situation. One significant indicator of progress was the successful completion of end-of-year exams by 80,000 students in the metropolitan area, suggesting improved security. Fils reiterated that the Transitional Presidential Council is taking necessary institutional steps to ensure a secure advance towards the electoral process.
Mitchell described the ongoing efforts in Haiti as small but important, emphasizing CARICOM’s commitment to supporting the nation. He stressed the importance of solidarity and continued assistance for Haiti as a CARICOM member. The CARICOM meeting underscored the collective efforts to stabilize Haiti, tackle its humanitarian crisis, and guide it toward elections and constitutional reform. The collaboration between local and international forces, including the National Police, Haitian military, and Kenyan troops, is making gradual but notable progress in enhancing security and restoring normalcy. This partnership has reclaimed key areas, such as the General Hospital in Port-au-Prince, allowing essential services to resume. Signs of improvement include the successful completion of end-of-year exams by 80,000 students in the metropolitan area, indicating better security conditions. CARICOM’s commitment to providing humanitarian aid and supporting Haiti’s transitional government remains strong, reflecting a unified effort to ensure stability and progress for the nation.
