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Haiti’s political landscape is facing a new wave of internal conflict as members of the Transitional Presidential Council (CPT) push for the dismissal of Foreign Minister Dominique Dupuy. The demand, reportedly triggered by Dupuy’s strong criticism of the Dominican Republic’s mass deportations of Haitians, has led to a standoff between the council and Prime Minister Garry Conille.
The CPT, led by President Leslie Voltaire, has expressed dissatisfaction with Dupuy’s harsh stance on the deportations, which she has called discriminatory and a violation of human rights. The council argued that her actions are too aggressive and could strain diplomatic relations with the Dominican Republic. Voltaire and other council members approved a resolution demanding her removal, but Conille has refused to comply, defending Dupuy’s performance as foreign minister.
In a tense exchange, Conille cited Haiti’s 1987 Constitution, emphasizing the separation of powers between the prime minister’s office and the presidency. He argued that the council does not have the authority to fire one of his ministers, adding that Dupuy has made significant contributions to the country, including securing international support and resources for the Haitian army.
The dispute over Dupuy’s role has disrupted government operations. A scheduled meeting of the council of ministers was canceled after Voltaire and other members threatened to withdraw from future meetings until Dupuy is removed. The standoff highlights ongoing political instability within Haiti’s U.S.-backed transition government, which is grappling with a range of challenges, including gang violence, economic hardship, and tensions with neighboring countries.
Dupuy, who has been serving as foreign minister for only four months, remains defiant, stating that she will continue to work for the benefit of the Haitian people. “I remain open to dialogue and collaboration with any and every official in this transition,” Dupuy said in an interview with the Miami Herald, signaling her determination to stay in her post despite the pressure.
The situation is further complicated by allegations of corruption involving several council members. Three members have been implicated in a bribery scandal, yet remain in their positions, raising questions about the council’s credibility and motivations for seeking Dupuy’s dismissal.
Public reaction to the CPT’s push for Dupuy’s removal has been mixed, with many in the Haitian community expressing dissatisfaction with the council’s decision. On social media, critics have accused the council of prioritizing political maneuvering over the national interest. Many Haitians see Dupuy’s strong stance on the Dominican Republic as necessary to protect the rights of Haitian migrants and have voiced support for her continued role in the government. Some have questioned the council’s motivations, given that several of its members are under scrutiny for alleged corruption.
The push for Dupuy’s ouster comes amid broader concerns about Haiti’s relationship with the Dominican Republic. The deportation of up to 10,000 Haitians a week has created diplomatic strain, and the Haitian government’s response has been divided. Dupuy’s firm stance on the issue has won her support among some sectors, but it has also created friction within the government.
U.S. involvement in the situation has added another layer of complexity. A high-level delegation from the Biden administration visited Haiti recently, urging Haitian leaders to prioritize national interests over political rivalries. The delegation, led by Principal Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer, emphasized the need for unity within the transitional government to address Haiti’s security and humanitarian crises.
The U.S. delegation also reiterated its support for Dupuy and called on the CPT to focus on addressing the country’s challenges, including gang violence and food insecurity, rather than internal political disputes. The U.S. has been closely monitoring the situation, particularly in light of Haiti’s worsening security conditions and the upcoming elections.
The political conflict surrounding Dupuy’s position is the latest sign of the difficulties facing Haiti’s transitional government as it navigates a period of profound instability. The standoff between the CPT and Prime Minister Conille remains unresolved, and it is unclear how the situation will evolve as the pressure on both sides continues to mount.
