Regional leaders express hope for consensus as troubled nation’s stakeholders begin security talks in Kingston
Hope for consensus
Regional leaders and former leaders gathered in Kingston yesterday for the opening ceremony of the Meeting of Haitian Stakeholders, who will use Jamaica as a base for discussions on the way forward for the beleaguered CARICOM nation. Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis spoke at length about the hopes and aspirations for the violence-torn republic.
Davis, who also serves as the current chairman of CARICOM, emphasized that a successful resolution to Haiti’s issues would amount to success for all member states of CARICOM. “The responsibility falls to all of us, to all of you, to make a supreme effort to find an effective solution. The challenges and struggles taking place in the Republic of Haiti have been present for far too long,” Davis said.
Davis also underscored the importance of finding a solution, even if it’s not perfect, in the immediate time, adding that “ultimately, there must be a Haitian solution led by the Haitian people.”
Prime Minister Andrew Holness, who hosted the meeting, praised the progress made so far and emphasized Jamaica’s support for the inclusive and open dialogue needed to find solutions and approaches to Haiti’s ongoing challenges.
Powerful gangs
The difficult situation in Haiti has been reflected in the powerful gangs that have been infiltrating once-peaceful communities in the Haitian capital and beyond. These gangs have pillaged neighborhoods, raped adults and children, and kidnapped hundreds of victims.
In early January, the terms of the remaining 10 senators expired, leaving no elected officials in place. Haiti has failed to hold elections since the July 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse.
For his part, Prime Minister Ariel Henry added to the calls for support from civil societies and other groups, stressing that “it is up to us, the people of Haiti, to together amongst ourselves, through our own efforts, to find a common national project which will bring us together and to have a rebirth of our nation.”
CARICOM Secretary General Carla Barnett expressed hope that the meeting would enable dialogue necessary to develop a roadmap towards a Haitian-led solution to the protracted political impasse. “Let it be very clear, Haiti is important to CARICOM,” she said. “Haiti is our single largest member state. Haiti is the first free black republic in the world. The first independent state in the Caribbean and the second independent state in the Western Hemisphere.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, the regional leaders’ efforts to bring together stakeholders for dialogue and finding solutions to Haiti’s ongoing crisis is a step in the right direction. It is essential that all parties, including civil societies and international organizations, come together to support the Haitian people in finding a peaceful and prosperous future.
FAQs
1. What is the purpose of the Meeting of Haitian Stakeholders?
The purpose is to bring together stakeholders to discuss the way forward for the beleaguered CARICOM nation and to find solutions to Haiti’s ongoing crisis.
2. Who are the regional leaders attending the meeting?
Regional leaders attending the meeting include Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis, Jamaica Prime Minister Andrew Holness, and Haiti Prime Minister Ariel Henry, among others.
3. What is the current situation in Haiti?
Haiti is facing a crisis marked by gang violence, kidnappings, and the lack of elected officials. The government has failed to hold elections since the July 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse.
4. What is CARICOM’s role in the meeting?
CARICOM is supporting the meeting and efforts to find a solution to Haiti’s crisis, recognizing the importance of the region’s single largest member state.
5. What is the goal of the meeting?
The goal is to enable dialogue necessary to develop a roadmap towards a Haitian-led solution to the protracted political impasse, enabling the country to overcome its crisis and rebuild its democracy.