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In his interview, Voltaire alleged that the rise of armed gangs in Haiti was directly linked to Martelly’s presidency (2011–2016), claiming that gangs were “legalized” under his rule. He suggested that political figures and business elites initially used these groups for personal gain, but they later became independent criminal networks involved in drug and arms trafficking.
Voltaire’s statements drew swift reactions, with some viewing them as an oversimplification of Haiti’s complex security crisis. Many political analysts and local leaders argue that the country’s gang problem predates Martelly and can be traced back to former President Jean-Bertrand Aristide’s tenure in the 1990s and early 2000s.
Critics of Voltaire’s remarks point out that gangs gained influence during Aristide’s rule, when armed groups known as “chimères” were used to intimidate political opponents. They argue that successive governments, including those led by René Préval and Martelly, failed to dismantle these groups, allowing them to evolve into powerful criminal networks.
Furthermore, some observers highlight that Voltaire’s affiliation with Fanmi Lavalas, Aristide’s party, raises questions about his objectivity in assigning blame for the current crisis.
The debate comes at a crucial time for Haiti, as the country prepares for elections in November 2025. The transitional government, led by Voltaire, is tasked with restoring order and ensuring a peaceful transfer of power by February 2026. However, ongoing gang violence continues to destabilize Port-au-Prince, making electoral preparations increasingly difficult.
During his visit to France, Leslie Voltaire met with President Emmanuel Macron to discuss Haiti’s security crisis, including measures to combat arms and drug trafficking between Haiti and Colombia. Voltaire also proposed creating a civic program to reintegrate young people exploited by gangs. In addition to security concerns, the two leaders addressed Haiti’s historical debt to France, with Macron hinting at a potential statement on the matter in April 2025, marking the bicentennial of the imposed indemnity.
Meanwhile, the United Nations and regional allies continue to debate the best approach to stabilizing Haiti. While a multinational security force has been deployed, its effectiveness remains limited, with Voltaire acknowledging that Haiti has received far fewer troops than initially promised.
Haiti’s deepening security crisis, compounded by political tensions and historical grievances, leaves the country at a critical juncture. As debates over gang origins and accountability continue, many Haitians are demanding concrete solutions rather than political blame games.
With elections looming, Voltaire faces the difficult task of navigating these divisions while ensuring a secure and democratic transition. Whether his government can effectively address gang violence and restore public trust remains to be seen.
You can watch the full interview here.
