Haiti Boosts Security Near National Palace Ahead of 2024 Political Transition

Port-au-Prince, Haiti - The Haitian government has increased security measures near the National Palace in the capital city as the country prepares for a political transition in 2024. Armored vehicles and police patrols have been deployed in the Champ de Mars area surrounding the palace to curb gang threats and ensure safety as a new transitional council prepares to take charge.

Gangs currently control most of the territory around the National Palace, but a nine-member presidential transition council is demanding to be sworn in at the palace on Wednesday. The push to hold the ceremony at the palace, despite the ongoing violence and gunfire in the area, is seen as a show of force to suggest the Haitian government is still in charge.

The security situation has been a major concern, with more than 2,500 people killed or wounded across Haiti from January to March, a 50% increase compared to the same period last year. Much of the violence has been concentrated in Port-au-Prince, where bullets whiz past buildings and people daily as armored vehicles slowly roll past the palace.

The UN special envoy for Haiti has stressed the need to assist the country in reestablishing security, as gang leaders have stated their intention to violently disrupt the current political process. Regional officials are urging the transitional council to choose a safer venue for the swearing-in ceremony, considering the risks posed by the gangs near the National Palace.

Why this matters: The political transition in Haiti comes amid a fragile security situation and a humanitarian crisis exacerbated by gang violence. The success of the transitional council in navigating these challenges and restoring stability will be crucial for the country's future.

Despite the ongoing violence, some Haitians believe the ceremony should still be held at the National Palace to demonstrate that the government remains in control. "We have to do it there," said Pierre Espérance, executive director of the Haitian National Human Rights Defense Network. "It's a way to show that the state is still functioning."

Key Takeaways

• Haiti boosts security around National Palace ahead of political transition in 2024.
• Gangs control territory around the palace, but transitional council demands swearing-in there.
• Violence has surged in Haiti, with over 2,500 killed/wounded from Jan-Mar 2023.
• UN envoy stresses need to restore security as gangs aim to disrupt political process.
• Transitional council's success in navigating challenges crucial for Haiti's future stability.