Haiti’s Prime Minister, Ariel Henry, to Resign Amid Escalating Violence and Pressure

After weeks of mounting pressure and a surge in violence across Haiti, Prime Minister Ariel Henry has agreed to step down. This decision follows a meeting of regional leaders in Jamaica to address the political transition in Haiti.

Mr. Henry finds himself stranded in Puerto Rico after being blocked by armed gangs from returning home. In a video statement announcing his resignation, he appealed for calm among Haitians, emphasizing the need for peace and stability.

Since assuming interim leadership in July 2021 following the assassination of former President Jovenel Moïse, Henry faced criticism for repeatedly delaying elections, citing the necessity to restore security first. The prolonged governance without an elected president stirred unrest among Haitians.

The capital, Port-au-Prince, and its vicinity have been under a state of emergency for a month, with an extended curfew in place. Heavily armed gangs have tightened their grip on the streets, attacking police stations and facilitating prison breaks, demanding Henry’s resignation.

Matthias Pierre, a former elections minister, described the situation as “very precarious,” with the police force weakened, numerous police stations destroyed, and government facilities overrun by gang members.

Henry’s resignation was anticipated, with regional and international pressure mounting. Caricom nations deemed him an obstacle to Haiti’s stability, pushing for his resignation to facilitate the transition to a new council.

While the White House initially sought Henry’s return to oversee the transitional process, escalating violence prompted a shift in strategy. Without support from the US or neighboring nations, Henry’s resignation became inevitable.

The transitional presidential council, expected to comprise representatives from various sectors, is tasked with appointing an interim prime minister and paving the way for Haiti’s first elections since 2016. The US has pledged additional funds for a UN-backed security force to address Haiti’s security challenges.

President Irfaan Ali of Guyana, speaking on behalf of Caricom, acknowledged Henry’s resignation, highlighting the council’s role in ensuring a smooth transition and barring potential candidates from participating in the upcoming elections.