Haiti’s Prime Minister Ariel Henry formally announced his resignation on Tuesday.
The decision comes in the wake of a pivotal meeting among Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders in Jamaica, where a deal was brokered to facilitate a “peaceful transition of power” in Haiti.
Henry who is in Puerto Rico after being barred from returning to his country, conveyed his resignation via a video recording, asserting, “The government that I’m running cannot remain insensitive in front of this situation. There is no sacrifice that is too big for our country.” He further stated, “The government I’m running will remove itself immediately after the installation of the council.”
The process of transition is set to include the establishment of a new presidential council, whose members will be selected through consensus among various sectors of Haitian society. This council will oversee the administration of current affairs until the appointment of a new prime minister and government.
The resignation of Prime Minister Henry was first disclosed by Dr. Irfaan Ali, the President of Guyana and CARICOM Chairman, during the closing remarks following the Jamaica meeting. Noteworthy attendees included officials from the United States, France, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Benin, Kenya, and representatives from the United Nations.
Dr. Ali elaborated on the terms of the agreement, indicating that Henry’s resignation would pave the way for a transitional governance arrangement. This arrangement he said includes an action plan focusing on security and lays out the path for organizing a free and fair election in Haiti.
Furthermore, Dr. Ali outlined the composition of the transitional presidential council, which is expected to consist of seven voting members and two voting observers.
Henry ascended to power following the tragic assassination of President Jovenel Moise in July 2021.
Throughout his tenure, Haiti has grappled with the persistent threat of heavily armed gangs, notably led by former elite policeman Jimmy “Barbecue” Cherizier. These groups had been advocating for Henry’s resignation, with some even resorting to blockades preventing his return to the country.
Henry recently travelled to Kenya where he signed an agreement allowing for a United Nations Security Council-sanctioned international force led by the African country to restore peace and security in his troubled country.
In response to the escalating security challenges, the Haitian government recently announced an extension of the nighttime curfew until March 14. The extension aims to thwart further attacks by criminal gangs that have significantly destabilized the nation.