By : Lloyd Mahachi
Haiti’s President of the Transitional Presidential Council, Leslie Voltaire, has expressed deep concern over the catastrophic consequences of Trump’s policies on Haiti. In a recent interview, Voltaire stated that Trump’s decisions to freeze aid programs, deport migrants, and block refugees would worsen Haiti’s already dire situation.
The situation in Haiti is indeed dire. Gang violence has led to a significant increase in internal displacement, with over one million people affected. The International Organization for Migration has reported a near-doubling of displacement in the capital, Port-au-Prince, and a collapse of healthcare services and food security.
Voltaire highlighted the need for international support to address Haiti’s crisis. He emphasized that Haiti cannot handle the influx of deported migrants, estimated to be around 1.5 million Haitians living in the US. Voltaire urged the international community to provide assistance, citing the World Food Program and International Migration Organization’s efforts as insufficient.
To address the gang violence, Voltaire proposed boosting Haiti’s multinational police force with additional officers. He expressed optimism that with increased support, Haiti can hold general elections by next November. However, he acknowledged the significant challenge posed by powerful gangs controlling 85% of the capital.
The power of gangs in Haiti has grown significantly since the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse. Some gangs have even expressed interest in participating in the political process, a possibility Voltaire has excluded. The UN has reported a 20% increase in killings in Haiti last year, with over 5,600 people killed.
In light of these challenges, Voltaire has sought international support. He met with Pope Francis and requested an international conference of solidarity for Haiti. The Pope has expressed support, and the Vatican is working to convince Mexico and Canada to participate in funding the conference.
Voltaire is also scheduled to meet with French President Emanuel Macron to seek additional help for Haiti. The international community’s response to Haiti’s crisis will be crucial in determining the country’s future. With the right support, Haiti can overcome its challenges and build a more stable and prosperous future.
The road ahead will not be easy, but Voltaire remains optimistic. He believes that with international support and cooperation, Haiti can address its challenges and achieve its goals. The international community must come together to support Haiti in its time of need.
Haiti’s crisis is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive solution. The international community must work together to address the root causes of the crisis, including poverty, inequality, and lack of access to education and healthcare.
The situation in Haiti is a reminder that the world is interconnected, and that the challenges faced by one country can have far-reaching consequences. The international community must come together to support Haiti and address the global challenges that affect us all.
Haiti’s future hangs in the balance. The international community’s response to the country’s crisis will determine its future. With the right support and cooperation, Haiti can overcome its challenges and build a more stable and prosperous future.
Editor : Josephine Mahachi
