The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries, where French is spoken, are facing a political and socio-economic crisis in Haiti, resulting in increased gang violence and the collapse of democratic institutions.
Guyana’s President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, has called for a transitional government in Haiti.
He stated that it is unfortunate that Dr. Ariel Henry’s administration has been unable to form such a government that represents a broad-based consensus.
Ali told the Protocolary Meeting of the Permanent Council of the Organization of American States (OAS) that Haiti’s fundamental problems arose from its strong desire to be free from enslavement, and an equally strong desire to make profits from enslavement rooted in inherent racism.
He added that Haiti was obligated to compensate France for over a century, which deprived its people of the chance to reinvest in the nation’s development.
Ali also stated that the subsequent invasion and occupation of Haiti by the United States, along with the rule of Haitian autocrats who plundered the country through corruption and oppression, has contributed significantly to the current chaotic situation in Haiti.
A recent mission by the CARICOM Eminent Persons Group (EPG) to Haiti, headed by former St. Lucia prime minister Dr. Kenny Antony, intended to broker a solution among stakeholders, expressed profound disappointment about the inability of Haitian stakeholders to converge on common ground.
Ali said that amidst this backdrop, gangs have entrenched their dominance, subjecting the Haitian population to a terrifying regime of murders, rapes, brutality, and pervasive fear.
He said that three issues are currently pervasive in the Haitian situation, namely security, humanitarian aid, and political stability.
According to Ali, the pressing need for a viable political situation is at the heart of these issues.
He added that without a transitional government that enjoys the endorsement of the majority, effective governance and decision-making remain untenable.
Only with a representative transition government in place, can Haiti credibly approach the United Nations Security Council for support in re-establishing law and order and its democratic institutions.
Ali urged the global community, in partnership with CARICOM and OAS member states, to assist Haiti in its quest to revive democratic institutions, restore the rule of law, and ensure the broader embrace of democracy.
He said that Haitians urgently need health care, sustenance, water, and above all, the restoration of normalcy in their daily lives.
I hope and pray that the people of Haiti will be able to find good leaders who can inspire them to unite and all work together towards a good vision of development for their country.