Loading...

Haitian Health Minister Removed Following Hospital Attack Amid Rising Tensions

Haiti's Health Minister dismissed after deadly attack on General Hospital in Port-au-Prince. Read about the escalating security and humanitarian crises in the nation.
Former Health Minister Dr. Duckenson Lorthe Blema.

Can't read it? Listen now!

0:00

Port-au-Prince, Haiti – The Haitian government has dismissed Health Minister Dr. Duckenson Lorthe Blema following a violent attack on the General Hospital in Port-au-Prince that resulted in the deaths of two journalists and a police officer. The attack, which occurred on December 24, was carried out by the armed gang “Vivre Ensemble,” deepening the nation’s security and humanitarian crises.

Justice Minister Patrick Pelissier will temporarily oversee the Ministry of Public Health and Population until a new health minister is appointed, according to government sources.

Dr. Lorthe Blema had planned to reopen the General Hospital as a symbolic gesture for Christmas, despite ongoing insecurity in the area. However, the move turned deadly when the hospital became the target of an armed assault. The gang violence not only disrupted medical services but also highlighted the grave risks facing public institutions in Haiti.

In Case You Missed It:

Leslie Voltaire Condemns Political Alliance with “Coalition Viv Ansanm”

The hospital, one of Haiti’s largest healthcare facilities, has been caught in the crossfire of the country’s escalating gang conflict, leaving patients and medical staff vulnerable.

Before Dr. Lorthe Blema’s removal, the Ministry of Public Health announced the creation of a crisis unit to provide support for victims and their families. The unit aims to ensure medical and psychological care for those affected by the attack. The ministry emphasized the importance of maintaining essential healthcare services despite the volatile security situation.

Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé condemned the attack, describing it as a “heinous act” that has shocked the nation. The prime minister pledged government support for victims’ families and committed to covering funeral expenses for the deceased. He also reiterated the government’s resolve to pursue the perpetrators, emphasizing that “impunity has no place in a society striving for justice and peace.”

The European Union’s delegation in Haiti also strongly denounced the attack, calling it an “unacceptable attempt to destabilize the country.” The EU expressed solidarity with the victims and urged measures to protect journalists and healthcare facilities.

In Case You Missed It:

Colombian President Gustavo Petro to Visit Haiti for Landmark Talks

The attack at the General Hospital is the latest in a series of violent incidents that have devastated communities across Haiti. Armed groups have increasingly targeted key infrastructure, forcing thousands to flee their homes and live in precarious conditions. In December alone, a United Nations investigation reported 207 deaths in a gang-related massacre in Cité Soleil, underscoring the dire need for a coordinated response to restore stability.

The removal of Dr. Lorthe Blema reflects the mounting pressure on Haitian leadership to address the intersecting challenges of security, governance, and public health. As international actors express alarm over the deepening crisis, the government faces growing demands for accountability and effective measures to protect its citizens.

Share everywhere!

Get Haiti's top stories. Sign up for free!

Keep up to date with the latest news about Haiti and beyond.

Skip to content