US sanctions former Haitian PM

Former Haitian Prime Minister Laurent Salvador Lamothe has been sanctioned by the United States for what the US says is his alleged involvement in “significant corruption”

The US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken explained that the action bars the former Haitian PM from entering US among other restrictions

“Specifically, Lamothe misappropriated at least US$60 million from the Haitian government’s PetroCaribe infrastructure investment and social welfare fund for private gain. Through this corrupt act and his direct involvement in the management of the fund, he exploited his role as a public official and contributed to the current instability in Haiti,” Blinken said in a statement

In addition, Blinken explained that the US will continue “to support the citizens, organizations, and public servants of Haiti who are committed to generating hope and opportunity for a better future in their nation” 

Blinken said the Joe Biden administration will also continue to promote accountability for those who abuse public power for personal gains in Haiti and any other country.

In November and December 2022, the United States sanctioned four Haitian individuals—Joseph Lambert, Youri LaTortue, Rony Celestin and Herve Fourcand — under Executive Order 14059, which includes both financial sanctions and visa restrictions.