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On January 10, 2025, the Haitian National Police (PNH) celebrated the graduation of its 34th cohort at the National Police Academy. The group, aptly named “Vertières,” includes 739 new officers: 526 men and 213 women. This addition represents a significant step in addressing the country’s urgent security needs.
The ceremony brought together high-profile attendees, including the President of the Transitional Presidential Council (CPT), Leslie Voltaire, Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, senior police officials, representatives from international partners like the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Multinational Security Support Mission, and members of the diplomatic corps.
In his address, PNH Director General Normil Rameau lauded the graduates for their perseverance and commitment during their rigorous training. He emphasized the critical role these officers will play in serving and protecting a population plagued by insecurity and violence.
The new officers received training in various disciplines, including human rights, road safety, tactical combat, and firearm proficiency. Rameau also acknowledged the loss of an aspiring officer during training, observing a moment of silence in her honor.
Justice Minister Patrick Pélissier echoed the importance of their role in restoring security, describing police officers as public servants committed to upholding citizens’ rights. He assured the graduates that their training would be an ongoing process, enhancing their skills to meet Haiti’s security challenges.
The ceremony also highlighted the collaborative effort between Haiti’s government and international partners. Leslie Voltaire praised the resilience of the police force and reiterated the CPT’s commitment to stabilizing the nation. He underscored the importance of reclaiming gang-controlled areas, reopening critical infrastructure, and ensuring displaced citizens can return to their homes.
Voltaire reminded the graduates that “the law must be your sole guide” and encouraged them to protect and serve with respect and humanity. He called for solidarity reminiscent of Haiti’s historical struggle for freedom, saying, “Together, we can achieve the security our country so desperately needs.”
While the addition of 739 officers strengthens the PNH, Voltaire acknowledged it remains insufficient to fully address the nation’s extensive security needs. He stressed the importance of continued training, resource allocation, and community engagement in combating gang violence and restoring public confidence.
This new cohort is part of a broader strategy initiated by former PNH Chief Frantz Elbé, aimed at enhancing operational capabilities through recruitment, training, and improved logistics. The PNH plans to graduate multiple cohorts annually to address ongoing challenges.
