Inspector General André Jonas Vladimir Paraison was sworn in on Friday, August 8, 2025, as acting Director General of the Haitian National Police (PNH), succeeding Normil Rameau, who was formally dismissed. The leadership change comes amid a worsening security crisis marked by escalating gang violence and mounting challenges to public order.
A seasoned police officer, Paraison previously served in multiple roles within the institution, most recently as head of security for the National Palace. He replaces Rameau, who was serving his second term as police chief since June 2024, after an earlier tenure between August 2019 and November 2020. Despite overseeing several anti-crime operations, Rameau faced mounting criticism over the worsening security situation.
Paraison takes over a force under intense pressure, tasked with confronting heavily armed gangs tightening their grip on the capital and other regions. He assumed office just hours after his appointment during a ceremony at the Villa d’Accueil.
Expressing gratitude to the government for its confidence, Paraison pledged decisive action.
“Security will be restored across the national territory, especially in the capital and in the Artibonite and Centre departments,” he vowed. “Gangs will be hunted down, arrested, and brought to justice.”
The new police chief urged his officers to be ready for combat, extended an olive branch to police unions, and called for the full support of the Transitional Presidential Council (CPT), the government, and all sectors of society to address the crisis.
Friday’s swearing-in ceremony was attended by members of the CPT, including newly appointed coordinator Laurent St-Cyr; Prime Minister Alix Didier Fis-Aimé; members of the Superior Council of the National Police; and outgoing Director General Normil Rameau.
The CPT described the leadership change as a crucial step toward restoring security—a prerequisite for constitutional reform and the holding of free and peaceful elections.
“The situation is critical. Difficult and courageous decisions must be taken,” said CPT coordinator Laurent St-Cyr, while praising Rameau’s service. “We must inject new energy into the PNH. The challenges are immense, and there is no room for hesitation.”
The Haitian public now looks to Paraison to deliver a turning point in a battle against violence that has gripped the country for years.
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