Mario Andrésol, the former director general of the Haitian National Police (PNH), has been appointed as the new secretary of state for public security.
The announcement comes as Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé emphasized that the appointment reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the nation’s ongoing security challenges.
Haiti has been grappling with escalating violence as criminal gangs intensify their efforts to overthrow the government, particularly around the capital, Port-au-Prince. These gangs have led numerous deadly attacks, severely impacting the country’s stability.
In a statement at the swearing-in ceremony, Prime Minister Fils-Aimé underscored the importance of public security in the nation’s future. “Public security is and will remain the foundation on which we will build a stable, prosperous, and united Haiti,” Fils-Aimé declared, urging Andrésol to act “diligently and efficiently, mobilising all necessary resources” to restore peace.
Andrésol, who took the oath of office administered by the head of the Presidential Transitional Council, Leslie Voltaire, expressed his resolve to confront the country’s security crises. “If I have agreed to return to the service of the state and the population in a context as difficult as it is troubled, it is not because I believe that I can work miracles,” Andrésol said. He emphasized that while he does not see himself as the “bearer of any messianic destiny,” his extensive experience in both strategic and operational fields, along with the support of handpicked collaborators, would contribute significantly to rebuilding Haiti’s security governance.
The swearing-in ceremony was also attended by Justice Minister Patrick Pélissier, who highlighted the importance of strengthening the rule of law and ensuring the safety of Haitian citizens. Meanwhile, President Voltaire stressed the need for unity among all Haitian stakeholders to confront the ongoing crisis.
Mario Andrésol previously served as the director general of the PNH from 2005 to 2012, bringing a wealth of experience to the role as the country seeks solutions to its deepening security crisis.
