A transitional presidential council will be set up in Haiti after which embattled Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry will vacate his post.
The announcement was made by Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Chairman of CARICOM and President of Guyana, following a day of extensive discussions with regional leaders in Jamaica.
During a press conference, Ali outlined the structure and responsibilities of the transitional council, emphasizing its pivotal role in appointing an interim prime minister and overseeing preparations for a national election to select a new government leader.
The transitional presidential council will consist of seven voting members representing Haitian political parties and the private sector, alongside two non-voting observers from civil society and the interfaith community.
Notably, individuals facing charges, indictments, or convictions in any jurisdiction, as well as those under United Nations (UN) sanctions or intending to stand in Haiti’s upcoming election, are excluded from participation. Additionally, opposition to UN Security Council Resolution 2699 serves as a disqualifying factor.
“The transitional presidential council will, together, with the interim prime minister, appoint an inclusive council of ministers. The transitional presidential council will hold the relevant and possible powers of the Haitian presidency during the transition period until the elected government is established,” Ali said.
Ariel Henry, who has been de-facto prime minister since 2021, confirmed his decision to resigning in a video statement, saying, “The government will step down immediately following the establishment of this Council and will continue to manage current affairs until the appointment of a Prime Minister and formation of a new government. I express gratitude to the Haitian people for the opportunity to serve our nation with integrity, wisdom, and honor.”
France not negotiating with gangs
The consensus on Haiti’s path forward emerged shortly after France affirmed its stance against engaging in negotiations with gangs responsible for escalating violence in the capital, Port-au-Prince. This declaration coincided with regional backing for establishing a presidential council to facilitate the organization of a national election.
Chrysoula Zacharopoulou, the French Minister of Development and International Partnerships, made it clear that France would not endorse any framework accommodating those who undermine the rule of law.
“Let’s be clear, any compromise with gangs and their supporters is [antithetical]. It is a redline for us,” Zacharopoulou told CARICOM leaders during Monday’s high-level meeting at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel.
She emphasized that individuals lacking integrity should not be included in efforts to address the escalating turmoil in Haiti.
The meeting was also attended by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken who declared an increase in the United States’ commitment to Haiti. Blinken revealed that the US would double its contribution, pledging an extra US$100 million for the multinational security force, which is yet to be dispatched to the French-speaking nation.
Moreover, Blinken announced an allocation of US$33 million in humanitarian aid for Haitians, targeting health and food security needs.
