Haiti’s transitional council hands power to US-backed prime minister

In Haiti, the Transitional Presidential Council transferred power to US-backed Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aime on Saturday, ending its nearly two-year governance. The move follows a period of political instability marked by gang violence and a recent attempt by council members to remove Fils-Aime from power. The United States responded to the attempted ousting by announcing visa revocations and deploying a warship near Port-au-Prince. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the importance of Fils-Aime's continued leadership for combating gangs and stabilizing Haiti. The council, formed in 2024 after the assassination of President Jovenel Moise, dissolved after the transfer. Fils-Aime now faces the challenge of organizing the first general elections in a decade.

Haiti faces an uncertain future as the mandate of its Transitional Presidential Council (CPT) ended on February 7th without a clear succession plan. The CPT, formed in April 2024 after Prime Minister Ariel Henry's resignation, was intended to address gang violence and organize elections. However, its term was plagued by security issues, corruption allegations, and internal disputes. The United States supports Prime Minister Fils-Aime remaining in power and has threatened consequences for those attempting to oust him, even imposing sanctions on five council members. The US has also sent warships to Port-au-Prince, signaling its commitment to Haiti's security and stability. The CPT's failure to establish a clear path forward leaves Haiti in a precarious political situation.

Haiti faces a leadership vacuum as the tenure of its U.S.-backed presidential council expires on Saturday. The council, established nearly two years ago to organize elections and stabilize the country, has been criticized for poor governance and corruption. The country has been without an elected president for almost five years. The U.S. and the UN are urging the current prime minister, appointed by the council, to remain in power. The situation is exacerbated by widespread gang violence and poverty, leaving many Haitians hoping for a strong, functional government.