Haiti Transitional Council Pledges to Restore 'Public and Democratic Order'
Members of the presidential Haiti transitional council issued their inaugural statement on Wednesday, signaling a crucial step towards the selection of a new prime minister amid the nation's turmoil.
The eight signatories expressed unwavering determination to address the long-standing challenges faced by the Haitian people, emphasizing the restoration of "public and democratic order."
The Haiti Transitional Council's statement arrives in the wake of severe violence, with gangs targeting vital government institutions and causing significant destruction.
Since the onset of the attacks on February 29, including assaults on police stations, the international airport, and prison breakouts, scores have lost their lives, and thousands are displaced, AP News reports.
With downtown Port-au-Prince witnessing the recent escalation of Haiti gang violence, the council members vowed to execute a comprehensive action plan focused on reinstating public safety, alleviating poverty, and facilitating free elections.
Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who has been leading Haiti since the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in 2021, reiterated his commitment to resign upon the council's formal establishment.
However, internal discord among party leaders has hindered progress, prolonging the crisis.
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Humanitarian Crisis Deepens as Violence Persists
As political deadlock persists, Haiti grapples with an escalating humanitarian crisis, according to France24.
UNICEF warns of a looming catastrophe, with malnutrition and lack of healthcare endangering countless lives, particularly children.
Nearly half of the country's population faces acute food insecurity due to related Haiti gang violence, exacerbating an already dire situation.
The healthcare system, already strained, teeters on the brink of collapse amid the violence.
Hospitals struggle with shortages of personnel, medicine, and essential resources, severely compromising emergency services.
With only one operational public hospital in Port-au-Prince, the situation is dire. Medical facilities have been targeted, exacerbating the plight of the populace.
Doctors plead for assistance amid dwindling supplies of oxygen and water, essential for treating the wounded.
The relentless violence has forced numerous medical centers to shutter, leaving communities devoid of vital healthcare services.
Efforts for Political Transition Amid Turmoil
Prime Minister Henry's attempts to return to Haiti have been fraught with obstacles, underscoring the tumultuous political landscape, CNN noted.
The international community, including the United States and Canada, urges swift action to facilitate a political transition.
Concerns mount as neighboring nations fortify borders amid fears of mass migration and potential security threats stemming from the unrest in Haiti.
While the nation grapples with immediate crises, long-standing issues persist, exacerbated by political instability, Haiti gang violence, and environmental challenges.
With millions in need of humanitarian assistance, urgent and coordinated efforts are imperative to address Haiti's multifaceted crisis.
The country stands at a critical juncture, with the Haiti transitional council offering a glimmer of hope amid pervasive uncertainty.
As the nation navigates through tumultuous times, concerted international support and decisive action are essential to pave the path toward stability, democracy, and recovery.
This article is owned by Latin Post.
Written by: Ross Key
WATCH: How Haiti's transitional governing council will work - From CBC News
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