Gang Boss in Haiti Warns of Civil War as Prime Minister Remains Silent
Haiti could face a grave crisis if temporarily exiled Prime Minister doesn’t step down, warns gang leader
The crime lord behind a six-day gang mutiny against Haiti’s prime minister, Ariel Henry, has claimed the Caribbean country could be plunged into civil war unless its temporarily exiled leader steps down.
Wearing an olive green tactical vest and flanked by armed foot soldiers in balaclavas, the gang boss Jimmy Chérizier, also known as ‘Barbecue’, spoke to reporters, addressing the escalating situation in Haiti. Chérizier expressed concern that the country’s future hinged on the actions of Ariel Henry, stating, “Either Haiti becomes a paradise or a hell for all of us.”
Chérizier voiced a strong warning, saying, “If Ariel Henry doesn’t resign, if the international community continues to support him, we’ll be heading straight for a civil war that will lead to genocide.”
During the last six days, gang fighters have carried out frequent prison breaks, captivated strategic locations in the capital city of Port-au-Prince including airports, police stations, and a port. The violence has led to the cancellation of most flights in and out of the country.
Amidst the escalating situation, concerns are mounting about the lack of control over the country. Jean-Marc Biquet, the head of the Médecins Sans Frontières mission in Haiti, expressed his fear, stating, “Who is in control? I think nobody is in control. And my personal fear is that the policemen are going to give up fighting and say, ‘It’s a lost battle.’ Then what can happen? Well, I guess, total chaos.”
While Chérizier confidently spoke out in public, the prime minister, Ariel Henry, and his crippled administration have remained predominantly silent, causing frustration and concern among the citizens. Monique Clesca, a writer and political activist based in Port-au-Prince, reflected, “It is horrifying. It is heartbreaking what is going on. And what is worse is that you don’t hear a word from the government,” blaming Henry’s administration for the unrest due to their inaction and incompetence.
Ariel Henry, a neurosurgeon in his seventies, assumed the role of acting president following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021. Since the outbreak of the gang rebellion, Henry has kept a low profile, with limited public appearances. During his attempt to return to Haiti on Tuesday, his private jet was reportedly denied clearance to land in both Haiti and the Dominican Republic, eventually forcing him to retreat to Puerto Rico.
With mounting concerns, efforts are being made to form a transitional government and obtain Henry’s resignation. The Biden administration, previously supportive of Henry, reportedly called him to pressure him into accepting the proposed changes.
The worsening security crisis in Haiti, which exacerbates the dire humanitarian emergency in the country, will be the topic of discussion in a private emergency meeting held by the UN security council on Wednesday.
Addressing the situation in Haiti, Matthew Miller, a spokesperson from the US State Department, urged all involved parties to prioritize the well-being of the Haitian population, by ending the violence and reaching a consensus to ensure inclusive governance, fair elections, and the restoration of democracy.
