Amidst Political Turmoil, Haiti’s Transitional Council Appoints Fritz Bélizaire as Prime Minister

The newly installed transitional council has elected Fritz Bélizaire, a former sports minister, as the country’s prime minister. This decision comes amidst escalating violence and uncertainty in the Caribbean nation.

Bélizaire’s selection, although a surprise move to many, gained the support of four out of seven voting members on the nine-member panel.

However, some panel members admitted their unfamiliarity with Bélizaire, who was notably absent during the announcement.

Additionally, the council appointed former presidential candidate Edgard Leblanc Fils as the panel president.

Fils expressed confidence in Bélizaire’s capabilities, emphasising the importance of unity and consensus-building in addressing Haiti’s challenges. Fils noted the urgent need to address Haiti’s security crisis, acknowledging the population’s suffering.

“This is a perfect choice for prime minister,” Fils noted.

The council recently engaged in discussions with army and police officials to devise strategies for resolving the security challenges gripping the nation.

Despite the council’s efforts, Haitians remain divided over the efficacy of a transitional government in restoring stability. The capital, Port-au-Prince, has been under siege since February 29, with gangs orchestrating coordinated attacks, including burning police stations and targeting critical infrastructure.

Also, the leading international airport has been closed since early March, and Haiti’s two largest prisons witnessed mass jailbreaks, releasing over 4,000 inmates.

Gang violence has also paralysed the country’s biggest seaport, exacerbating the already dire situation.

Following the announcement of Bélizaire’s appointment, the council convened behind closed doors to deliberate on forming the Cabinet.

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Oluwasegun Sanusi

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