Port-au-Prince was filled with panic on Monday as wild shootings filled the streets of Haiti’s capital, particularly near the national palace.
This latest wave of violence grips the Caribbean nation amidst efforts by the outgoing prime minister to finalize a transitional council, seen as crucial for resolving the ongoing social and political crisis and preparing for upcoming elections.
Witnesses reported civilians fleeing from gunfire in Port-au-Prince, where rival gangs exert control over large areas, following Prime Minister Ariel Henry’s announcement of plans to step down pending the establishment of the council and the appointment of an interim leader.
According to a government statement, the nine council members have been proposed by the regional body CARICOM, but their identities have not been disclosed.
Prime Minister Henry emphasized that unresolved legal matters need to be addressed by a council of ministers later on Monday to complete the transition process, raising concerns about further delays in resolving Haiti’s governance crisis.
Earlier in the day, armed individuals seized an armored vehicle from palace guards in the city center, while four individuals were found dead in Petion-Ville, an upscale suburb threatened by gang activity.
In addition, at least one person was fatally shot during clashes in the Delmas district, and local media reported a significant industrial park had been set ablaze three days prior.
The situation prompted the arrival of the new U.S. ambassador to Haiti, Dennis Hankins, as the United States and other nations continued efforts to evacuate their citizens from the troubled country.
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Lord have mercy