HAITIAN NETWORK OF ANTI-CORRUPTION JOURNALISTS

RHAJAC

To: Me. Fritz Patterson Dorval, Government Commissioner

Cc: Central Directorate of Judicial Police (DCPJ)

Subject: Complaint and Request for an Investigation Concerning Gérard Cassis

Dear Government Commissioner,The Haitian Network of Anti-Corruption Journalists (RHAJAC) is contacting you to request the opening of a judicial investigation into serious alleged facts involving businessman Gérard Cassis.According to information gathered by RHAJAC, Gérard Cassis allegedly imports more than 200 containers of merchandise per month from the United States and other countries.

These containers would reportedly transit through the Dominican Republic before entering Haiti without taxation or regular customs inspection.Gang leaders Jeff Larose, also known as “Jeff Gwo Lwa,” and Wilson Joseph, also known as “Lanmò San Jou,” are also alleged to be involved in this suspected network.Weapons and ammunition are alleged to have been concealed in some of the containers.

Wilson Joseph is reportedly said to have been one of the beneficiaries before their alleged redistribution to other leaders of armed groups in the country.

On August 20, 2026, agents from the General Administration of Customs (AGD) and the Central Directorate of Judicial Police (DCPJ) reportedly conducted a search of Gérard Cassis’s private residence as part of an investigation following the leaking of this information.

Since that operation, no substantial public information has made it possible to determine the status or subsequent developments of the case. RHAJAC nevertheless has information indicating that the movement of the containers in question allegedly continues without taxation or regular customs verification.

Rodney Louis, coordinator of the Strategic Council of EDE, has welcomed the recent amendments to Haiti’s electoral decree, describing them as steps that could help move the electoral process forward.Louis particularly highlights two changes: allowing voters to register online and reducing the number of documents required from candidates.

According to him, these measures could make the electoral framework more accessible while encouraging broader participation and greater confidence in the process.The EDE official is also calling on the relevant authorities to publish a new electoral calendar as soon as possible.

He argues that the timeline should be realistic and take into account Haiti’s ongoing security, technical and institutional challenges. Political parties and candidates, he adds, should be given sufficient time to prepare for the various electoral deadlines.

On the political front, Louis reaffirmed his support for the institutional direction led by Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé. He also advocates broader participation within the government, arguing that bringing together additional competent actors could strengthen the government’s ability to address national priorities.Security remains another major concern.

Louis is calling for sustained measures to protect the population, restore state authority and facilitate the movement of people and goods.He also stresses the importance of supporting domestic production, creating jobs and assisting small and medium-sized businesses. Finally, Louis urges political and social actors to prioritize dialogue and compromise as Haiti seeks greater institutional stability and credible elections.

The real estate market continues to be one of the most attractive investment sectors in 2026, drawing both individual buyers and institutional investors. Despite economic uncertainty in some regions, property ownership remains a reliable strategy for building long-term wealth and financial security.

According to industry experts, residential and commercial properties continue to generate strong demand, particularly in rapidly growing urban areas. Investors are increasingly attracted to real estate because of its potential to provide stable rental income and long-term asset appreciation.Technology is also transforming the industry.

Virtual property tours, digital contracts, and online mortgage applications are making real estate transactions faster and more convenient for buyers and sellers alike. These innovations are helping to streamline the purchasing process and improve market transparency.

Financial analysts believe that ongoing infrastructure development, population growth, and expanding housing demand will continue to support the real estate sector. As a result, property investment remains one of the most trusted and profitable opportunities for individuals seeking to diversify their portfolios and secure their financial future.

Ouanaminthe, June 11, 2026 – The Office of Insurance Against Third-Party Vehicle Risks (OAVCT) officially inaugurated its new regional office in Ouanaminthe on Thursday, marking another milestone in the institution’s ongoing modernization efforts.The inauguration ceremony brought together local authorities, representatives of civil society, OAVCT officials, and members of the media.Speaking at the event, OAVCT Director General Me. Jocelin Pierre described the opening as a significant step toward strengthening the institution’s services and expanding its reach in Haiti’s Northeast Department.

“This is much more than a change of location,” Pierre stated. “It reflects our commitment to improving service delivery and bringing the institution closer to the people.”According to the Director General, the new facility will allow OAVCT to introduce accident reporting services and reinforce its vehicle assessment operations, providing more efficient support to policyholders throughout the region.Located along the Haitian-Dominican border, Ouanaminthe is one of the country’s most important commercial and transportation hubs.

Pierre emphasized that the growing flow of people and vehicles in the area made it necessary to upgrade the institution’s infrastructure and service capacity.During his remarks, the OAVCT chief also raised concerns about the low rate of vehicle insurance coverage in the region. He revealed that only 10 percent of vehicles circulating in Ouanaminthe are currently insured through OAVCT.“This represents a major gap in the State’s public safety and road security framework,” he said, calling on OAVCT staff and institutional partners to intensify efforts to increase insurance coverage and public awareness.

Pierre also praised the collaboration of key public institutions, including the Haitian National Police (PNH), Customs Administration, and the General Tax Directorate (DGI), whose support contributes to the fulfillment of OAVCT’s mission.The Director General noted that the inauguration is part of a broader national program aimed at strengthening OAVCT’s operational capacity.

Several regional offices and annexes across the country have already benefited from infrastructure upgrades, new equipment, and improved working conditions.The ceremony concluded with the official ribbon-cutting and a guided tour of the new facilities, which are expected to provide faster, more efficient, and more accessible services to residents of the Northeast region.

Opposition to Haiti’s transitional government is intensifying. Several political and civic organizations, including Debout Citoyen and the Political Consensus group, argue that de facto Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé no longer holds constitutional legitimacy as of June 7, 2026.These groups point out that the Prime Minister himself invoked Article 149 of the Constitution on February 7 to justify the legal framework of the transition.

According to them, the timeframe associated with that transitional arrangement has now expired, placing the government outside the legal boundaries it previously cited to support its authority.

Critics denounce what they describe as a political drift, accusing the authorities of extending their stay in power without a popular mandate or a credible electoral timetable.

They argue that this situation further weakens national institutions at a time when Haiti is facing an unprecedented security crisis.For these organizations, Alix Didier Fils-Aimé has effectively become a resigned prime minister since June 7. They are calling for an urgent national dialogue to prevent a deeper institutional crisis and restore constitutional order.

Haiti’s Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) announced that it met with Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé on Sunday to discuss the country’s electoral process.

According to the CEP, the discussions focused on the measures required to organize inclusive, credible, free, and transparent elections in line with democratic standards and the aspirations of the Haitian people.

The electoral body stated that the meeting forms part of ongoing efforts to advance preparations for the upcoming elections. Both parties agreed to continue this framework of consultation in order to strengthen coordination mechanisms related to the progress of the electoral process.

The CEP emphasized the importance of close collaboration between institutions to ensure effective planning and implementation of the electoral agenda.

The meeting reflects the authorities’ stated commitment to fostering conditions conducive to a democratic and transparent vote.

The Office of Third-Party Vehicle Insurance (OAVCT) organized a special ceremony on Friday to honor mothers working within the institution.

More than forty mothers assigned to the Central Office were celebrated during the event, which brought together several prominent figures from Haiti’s public sector.

Directors General and representatives from various state institutions, including SEMANAH, EPPLS, PNCS, the National Library of Haiti, ONAPE, and ONI, attended the celebration in recognition of the invaluable role mothers play in society and the workplace.One of the most significant moments of the ceremony was a gesture of solidarity made by OAVCT Director General, Me Jocelin Pierre, toward an employee facing financial hardship. With the support of his law firm, he provided financial assistance to help cover the employee’s rent.

He also pledged additional support through the integration of one of her children into the institution and financial assistance aimed at helping her launch an income-generating activity.The event featured musical performances by several groups, creating a warm and festive atmosphere throughout the celebration.In his address, Me Jocelin Pierre emphasized the essential role Haitian mothers play in building strong families and contributing to national development.

Reflecting on his personal experience, he paid a heartfelt tribute to his own mother, who raised him alone, praising her courage, resilience, and the sacrifices she made to ensure his education and success.The Director General also encouraged employees to show greater respect, appreciation, and care for their mothers, wives, and daughters.

Leading the OAVCT for approximately three months, Me Jocelin Pierre reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining open dialogue with employees and pursuing reforms aimed at improving the performance and effectiveness of the state-owned commercial institution.The initiative reflects the OAVCT’s commitment to fostering a culture of recognition, solidarity, and respect while highlighting the crucial contribution of mothers to Haitian society.

Under the unifying theme “KONBIT FYÈTE DRAPO N” (United in Pride for Our Flag), the Haitian community of Coldwater, Michigan, proudly commemorated the 223rd anniversary of the Haitian Flag during a vibrant ceremony held on May 17, 2026, at Veteran’s Memorial Park. The venue carried deep symbolic significance, reflecting the historic ties between Haiti and the United States.

The celebration brought together members of the Haitian diaspora and representatives from various local communities, highlighting the growing influence of Haitian culture in the region. Music, speeches, and patriotic tributes marked a day dedicated to collective pride and remembrance.

One of the highlights was the presentation of the Coldwater Union Pride Cup 2026, awarded by the Haitian Community Coldwater Michigan to David Kerms in recognition of his outstanding service and commitment to the community.

Several respected community figures were also honored, including Rev. Past. Raymond Rodelet, Rev. Past. Dalebrun Esther, Shelda Gusteme, Nicole Panache, Jean René Sainrald (Babass), Vladimir Antoine, Josué Nicolas, and Jean Robert Jean Charles, for their active contributions to local development and community engagement.

A particularly meaningful moment was the unveiling of an Honor Wall at the Coldwater Community Center, commemorating the crucial role of Haitian soldiers in the Battle of Savannah in October 1779, where they fought alongside American forces against British troops. The tribute served as a reminder of a historic alliance that predates many commonly recognized chapters of U.S.–Haitian relations.

During the ceremony, Steeve Colin, Chancellor of the Haitian Community Coldwater Michigan, paid tribute to Haitian ancestors and honored Catherine Flon, the courageous woman credited with sewing Haiti’s national flag. He concluded with a powerful call for peace and unity: “Let us rise above social indifference and work together to build a non-violent world.” His message resonated far beyond Michigan, echoing the enduring values of solidarity and hope.

The Inter-Haitian Dialogue Conference has welcomed CARICOM’s position advocating a Haitian-led solution to the country’s ongoing political, institutional, and security crisis.

In a statement, the organization praised the regional bloc for recognizing the importance of national sovereignty and encouraging Haitians to take the lead in resolving their own challenges.

The conference also stressed that the interim mandate of Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé is legally set to expire on June 7, 2026. According to its representatives, this deadline is established under Article 149 of Haiti’s Constitution, which governs the exercise of executive authority during transitional periods.

The group called on political leaders, civil society organizations, and national institutions to engage in constructive dialogue aimed at preserving constitutional order, strengthening stability, and paving the way for a democratic future.

The residential real estate market continues to attract buyers and investors worldwide in 2026 despite ongoing economic fluctuations. Purchasing a home remains a top priority for many families seeking long-term financial security and a better quality of life.

According to industry specialists, modern technology is transforming the home-buying process through virtual tours, online property platforms, and digital administrative services. Buyers can now compare prices, explore neighborhoods, and access financing options faster than ever before.

Financial experts also note that many banks are offering flexible mortgage solutions for first-time buyers as well as experienced real estate investors. In several regions, demand for modern and energy-efficient homes is rising significantly.

With urban expansion and infrastructure development continuing across major cities, analysts believe residential real estate will remain one of the most stable and profitable investment sectors over the coming years.