Can't read it? Listen now!
Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council (CPT), in collaboration with Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, has officially launched the National Security Council (CNS) as part of a coordinated strategy to address the country’s deepening security crisis. The CNS, established in line with the April 3, 2024, Political Accord, will oversee responses to various facets of the security challenges impacting the nation.
This move comes as the government seeks to fulfill its commitment to a peaceful and organized transition, addressing the roots of instability while rebuilding trust among citizens. The council will include experts from Haiti, professionals from the diaspora, and key stakeholders tasked with formulating actionable solutions.
The establishment of the CNS coincides with the government’s declaration of a nationwide state of emergency from December 22, 2024, to January 21, 2025. This measure aims to empower law enforcement to combat gang violence effectively while addressing the country’s worsening agricultural and food crises.
The CPT and the government emphasize that the state of emergency will facilitate targeted interventions against armed groups controlling more than 80% of metropolitan Port-au-Prince. Armed gangs continue to expand their reach, including into key areas such as Avenue Poupelard and Poste Marchand, raising concerns over public safety and access to essential services.
The urgency of these measures was underscored by a recent attack on the Bernard Mevs Hospital in Port-au-Prince, a critical medical institution, which was partially burned by members of the “Viv Ansanm” gang coalition. This attack, along with other violent incidents, has underscored the pressing need for coordinated action to restore order.
The government has also adopted measures to ensure local governance during this crisis, including the appointment of interim executive agents for key municipalities such as Port-au-Prince, Pétionville, and Tabarre.
Haiti is also pursuing international partnerships to bolster its response to the crisis. A joint Haiti-Colombia ministerial meeting is scheduled later this week in Colombia, focusing on fostering bilateral cooperation in security, commerce, tourism, and humanitarian aid. This collaboration reflects Haiti’s broader strategy to seek external support while addressing internal challenges.
The CPT and the government reaffirm their commitment to restoring security, strengthening institutions, and addressing systemic issues. Efforts to raise awareness about national challenges and solutions remain central to the government’s vision for a more stable and prosperous Haiti.
While the establishment of the CNS and the state of emergency are significant steps, the path to stability requires sustained efforts, international support, and active participation from all sectors of Haitian society.
