Publication of the decree on the formation of the Presidential College: the United States was quick to react

The United States welcomed the decision of Ariel Henry’s resigned government to publish the decree forming the Collège Présidentiel. They congratulated the Haitian people on their unwavering commitment to “reconciliation and national dialogue”.
The announcement of the establishment of a Presidential Transitional Council (CPT) marks a decisive turning point towards stability and democratic governance in Haiti. This council, the result of extensive deliberations among various Haitian factions, aims to facilitate the holding of free and fair elections and to accelerate the deployment of a multinational security support mission, wrote Matthew Miller in a statement published on the State Department website.
“The establishment of the Transitional Presidential Council represents a significant step toward stability and democracy in Haiti. It underscores the willingness of Haiti’s leaders to prioritize the well-being of the people and to work together toward a brighter trajectory,” said Matthew Miller, spokesman for the U.S. State Department.
Haiti is grappling with a dire security situation, exacerbated by endemic violence caused by gangs claiming to represent the Haitian population. These criminal factions are not only disrupting vital infrastructure and economic centers, but also depriving Haitians of their basic rights to sustenance, education and healthcare, the State Department spokesman said, reiterating the United States’ commitment to help remedy the situation.
Mr. Miller also promised that his country would intensify its “support for Haitian security forces to strengthen their ability to defend their country.”
“The violence perpetrated by these criminal elements not only jeopardizes the safety and well-being of the Haitian people, but also hinders the nation’s trajectory toward stability and economic prosperity. We strongly support the Haitian security forces as they face these adversities and strive to restore law and order,” emphasized Mr. Miller.
The United States remains committed to working with CARICOM and international allies to support the Transitional Presidential Council’s mission to improve the lives of all Haitians. The creation of this council underscores the resilience and determination of the Haitian people to move forward in a spirit of national conciliation and cohesion,” said Matthew Miller.
While security issues are paramount, it is imperative to address the underlying problems that catalyze the proliferation of criminal enterprises in Haiti. Poverty, inequality and lack of opportunity have largely contributed to creating an environment conducive to violence and instability, Mr. Miller recalled.
“We understand that security cannot be achieved through coercive measures alone. It requires a comprehensive strategy that addresses the underlying socio-economic obstacles facing the Haitian population. The United States remains committed to supporting initiatives to reduce poverty, education, healthcare and job creation in order to empower Haitians and foster lasting stability,” said Miller.
The holding of free and fair elections is a decisive step towards the consolidation of democracy in Haiti. The department spokesman congratulated Haiti’s leaders on their willingness to make “difficult concessions and commit to the path of democratic governance.”
“The road to democracy is fraught with difficulties, but the clear commitment of Haiti’s leaders to ensuring free and fair elections is commendable. It is through democratic mechanisms that the voices of the people can resonate and their aspirations for a better future can be realized,” wrote Mr. Miller, who also praised the Caribbean Community for offering its good offices to facilitate the establishment of the Council Presidential Transition (CPT).
“We stand in solidarity with the Haitian people and will continue to support their aspirations for a better tomorrow. Through a collective effort, we can help build a safe, prosperous and inclusive Haiti for all its people,” concluded Matthew Miller, the Department’s spokesman.
It is important to remember that Ariel Henry’s government had, until recently, enjoyed the full support of the United States and other CORE GROUP member countries.
Chosen by then-President Jovenel Moise, Ariel Henry was installed as Prime Minister on July 20, 2021, following a communiqué issued on July 17, 2021 by the CORE GROUP, composed of the ambassadors of the United States, Canada, France, Germany, Brazil, the representative of the European Union, the representative of the Organization of American States, and the representative of the United Nations in Haiti.
“In a press release, the Core Group calls for the formation of a consensual and inclusive government in Haiti. It encourages the Prime Minister-designate, Ariel Henry, to pursue the mission entrusted to him to form such a government”, wrote the United Nations integrated office in Haiti on its Twitter account.