Haiti’s New Transitional Council Takes Power Amid Immediate Gang Overthrow Threats

Port-au-Prince, Haiti – A new era for Haiti’s leadership began on Thursday as wealthy businessman Laurent Saint-Cyr was inaugurated as the head of the transitional presidential council. Tasked with restoring stability to the deeply troubled nation, Saint-Cyr’s appointment comes at a critical juncture, with criminal gangs controlling an estimated 90% of the capital, Port-au-Prince.

Addressing the nation during his swearing-in, Saint-Cyr acknowledged the profound crisis facing Haiti, stating, “It’s not the time for beautiful speeches. It’s time to act.” His focus is firmly on security and re-establishing state authority, urging intensified operations from armed forces and increased international support for the under-resourced UN-backed mission.

The council’s inauguration was immediately overshadowed by ominous threats from powerful gang federations. Hours before the ceremony, notorious gang leader Jimmy Chérizier, known as “Barbecue,” released a video vowing to overthrow the government and calling on residents to facilitate his group’s movement towards the council’s office. This warning was followed by eruptions of gunfire across parts of the capital.

The UN-backed mission, led by Kenyan police, reported thwarting potential attacks through round-the-clock patrols and increased troop deployment around critical infrastructure. However, the mission itself faces severe limitations, with only 991 personnel against a target of 2,500, and just 14% of its estimated annual funding. Recent clashes saw two of its armored vehicles lost and three officers injured.

Public reaction to the new leadership is mixed. While supporters gathered to express hope, many citizens, weary of unfulfilled promises and escalating violence, voiced skepticism. Critics also point to the controversial role of Haiti’s private sector, with some wealthy elites accused of financing gangs. The ongoing violence has led to over 1.3 million displaced people and significant casualties in recent months, with sexual violence against women and girls also surging.

The new council, with Saint-Cyr at the helm and Alix Didier Fils-Aimé as Prime Minister, faces an immediate and daunting challenge to bring order and governance to a nation gripped by insecurity and political instability.

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