PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – The government of Haiti has declared a state of emergency and imposed a nighttime curfew in an effort to quell violent gang attacks that have plagued the capital city. This move comes as the country faces turmoil and unrest due to ongoing battles for political control.
Gangs in Haiti have continued to carry out attacks on police stations and other government institutions, despite initial efforts to enforce a three-day curfew. With limited resources and manpower, the National Police has struggled to contain the escalating violence, leaving the armed groups as key players in the political landscape.
The recent wave of violence began following Prime Minister Ariel Henry’s agreement to hold general elections in 2025, which was made during a meeting with Caribbean leaders in Guyana. The attacks have resulted in the destruction of police stations, shootings at the main airport, and the mass escape of over 4,000 inmates from prisons across Haiti.
As the situation deteriorates, discussions around deploying a U.N.-backed police force from Kenya have been met with legal obstacles, further complicating efforts to address the escalating crisis. Prime Minister Henry, currently stranded in Puerto Rico due to airport blockades by armed groups, faces mounting pressure to restore peace and stability in the country.
The violence has had devastating consequences, with numerous casualties reported, including police officers. Additionally, thousands have been displaced, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation in Haiti. Reports of food looting at the main port in Port-au-Prince have raised concerns about food shortages in the capital and beyond.
The UN’s World Food Program has been forced to suspend its maritime transport service, hindering the distribution of crucial supplies to other parts of the country. Furthermore, the suspension of port operations due to sabotage and vandalism has further impeded relief efforts, leaving essential supplies stranded and inaccessible.
Amidst the chaos, international efforts to intervene and support Haiti are underway. Calls for the deployment of a U.N.-backed force to restore order and prevent further descent into chaos have been made. Meanwhile, the U.S. is considering sending a Marine Corps team to protect its embassy in the face of escalating insecurity in the country.
As the situation in Haiti continues to unfold, neighboring countries like the Bahamas have taken preventive measures to address potential spillover effects of the crisis. The uncertainty and volatility in Haiti have sparked calls for political consensus and effective governance to navigate the country out of its current state of turmoil.