By Ardain Isma
CSMS Magazine
The situation in Haiti continues to spiral out of control, drawing grave concern from Human Rights Watch. Violence has surged to unprecedented levels, exacerbating the already dire conditions faced by nearly half of the population, who struggle with food insecurity. One cannot help but question: when will this suffering cease? How much longer can this crisis persist?
As Haiti grapples with turmoil, the world awaits the establishment of a 7-member governing council tasked with leading the country through these turbulent times. Each member represents a distinct political faction with varying visions for Haiti’s future, setting the stage for potential gridlock and failure.
However, the intervention outlined by the international community, particularly by CARICOM, falls short of providing meaningful assistance to the beleaguered Haitian people. The deployment of one thousand police officers from Kenya, funded by a $300 million pledge from the US, hangs in limbo until a functional government is in place. Skepticism abounds regarding the efficacy of this police force, especially considering the failure of previous UN missions to quell unrest in Port-au-Prince, a city of over one million residents.
CARICOM’s formula stipulates that Haitian leaders must consent to the presence of foreign forces on Haitian soil to participate in discussions. Yet, this requirement, while ostensibly aimed at restoring stability, undermines Haitian sovereignty and delegitimizes political actors who acquiesce to such conditions. Armed militants, emboldened by the prospect of foreign intervention, threaten to plunge the nation into civil war if their demands are not met, further complicating efforts to establish the governing council.
Ensuring the safety of council members emerges as a paramount concern, alongside the challenge of fostering cohesion among individuals with divergent agendas. If genuine aid were the objective, empowering the Haitian people to determine their own destiny would be the logical approach. Treating them as incapable of self-governance only perpetuates their plight.
In the face of mounting obstacles, the path to stability in Haiti appears fraught with uncertainty. However, prioritizing Haitian agency and autonomy offers a glimmer of hope amid the chaos.
Also see: Also see: Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry compelled to resign
Unrest in Haiti: Prime Minister Ariel Henry’s Refusal to Step Down Amidst Escalating Violence
Haiti Falls deeper into chaos as Prime Minister Hariel Henry is trapped abroad
Note: Ardain Isma is the Chief-Editor of CSMS Magazine. He is the author of several books, including Midnight at Noon, Bittersweet Memories of Last Spring, and Last Spring was Bittersweet. You can order these books by clicking on the links above.
