Additionally, Conille expressed firm opposition to any potential ministerial reshuffle without a thorough evaluation of the current ministers’ performances. He emphasized that such an evaluation is essential to ensure the efficacy and accountability of the government.

This escalating institutional rift signals a potential recalibration of power dynamics between the Presidency and the Prime Minister’s Office. By opposing a hasty cabinet reshuffle and advocating for accountability in the wake of the BNC scandal, Conille has adopted a strong stance on transparency and governance. His resistance to premature restructuring reflects a strategic commitment to uphold government integrity, possibly setting the stage for a broader power struggle within the administration.

As this standoff unfolds, it may ultimately redefine the relationship between Haiti’s key government institutions, revealing a deeper challenge to traditional power structures and signaling the potential for significant changes in the country’s political landscape.

The Dominican immigration services, working alongside local police, carried out this operation as part of a broader initiative aimed at curbing the flow of undocumented migrants. This crackdown comes amid a recent surge in the number of Haitians entering the Dominican Republic, many seeking better living conditions amid ongoing economic and political crises in Haiti.

Authorities in the Dominican Republic have announced that the detained individuals will soon be deported. Officials argue that enforcing immigration laws is essential to preserving national security and protecting resources for Dominican citizens. This stance reflects a growing national sentiment for stricter migration policies, particularly toward Haitian migrants who represent the largest foreign-born population in the country.

The Dominican government’s approach, however, has sparked criticism from human rights advocates who condemn the often harsh treatment of Haitian migrants. Advocacy groups argue that these immigration raids can violate basic rights, with some individuals being deported without proper review of their immigration status. In response, activists are calling for a more humane approach that respects international standards for the treatment of migrants, including the right to due process.

This latest incident underscores the Dominican Republic’s challenges as it navigates border control issues amid rising tensions around migration. While the government pledges to uphold public order, rights groups continue to question the human impact of these mass deportations, especially as the humanitarian situation in Haiti remains dire.

According to the Ministry, this initiative does not involve any direct operational intervention from the firm’s personnel on Haitian soil.Garry Conille, a representative of the Presidential Transition Council (CPT), confirmed that a contract had been signed with Studebaker Group to provide specialized training for PNH officers.

He emphasized that this collaboration aims to equip Haiti’s law enforcement with advanced skills to address the nation’s escalating security issues independently, without involving foreign-led operations.

Despite these assurances, the presence of Studebaker Group personnel has raised concerns within civil society.

Some worry that relying on a foreign security firm could undermine the autonomy of the Haitian police force. However, the government reiterated that Studebaker Group’s role is strictly limited to capacity-building and emphasized that all necessary security protocols are in place to uphold national sovereignty.

As security challenges continue, Haiti’s leadership faces the delicate task of seeking international expertise without compromising self-governance. The administration maintains that strengthening PNH capacity is vital, particularly as the nation confronts severe and ongoing security threats.

While the International Organization for Migration (IOM) recently reported several thousand displaced, residents and local authorities contest this number, arguing it fails to reflect the depth of the crisis.

Some locals claim that the real figure nears 40,000 people, as violence pushes families into surrounding towns and cities.”This crisis is far worse than what the reports are showing,” said a resident who fled with his family to La Gonâve, a neighboring island offering relative safety.

“We were forced to leave everything behind, and now we’re barely getting by in overcrowded shelters.

”Arcahaie’s displacement has impacted neighboring areas as well, as people seek safety in towns like Saint-Marc and Léogâne, and local resources are stretched thin.

In makeshift shelters, people face precarious living conditions with limited access to food, water, and healthcare. Humanitarian needs are mounting, but resources have yet to keep pace.

The Prime Minister received an official correspondence on Thursday, October 31, addressed to the Office of the Prime Minister, demanding explanations about the involvement of a private company in roles traditionally carried out by public security forces.

This summons marks the second in a matter of days, intensifying concerns within political circles and civil society.

Speculation is mounting over the exact nature and role of the private entity, as it appears to be involved in operations typically under the jurisdiction of national law enforcement.

Sources suggest that the company in question may be engaged in public security activities, raising questions about the government’s approach to managing security within the country.

Traditionally, such responsibilities fall exclusively under the national security forces, further fueling skepticism regarding the company’s legitimacy and mandate.

The public awaits Prime Minister Conille’s response, with many hoping his clarification will address the legality and scope of the private company’s involvement in public security matters.

Their mission? To effectively represent Haitian students, promote Haitian culture and identity, and strengthen Haiti’s reputation within Canada’s multicultural environment.

This year’s executive committee includes five members: Fenley Cius as President, Roodolph Louis Jean as Vice-President, Bryan Ruben as Spokesperson, and Jean-François Maherline as Secretary. Guided by the committee’s founders, Wendy Jacques—a founder and the coordinator of the seniors’ committee—helped oversee the transition to the new team, who are already working with a busy agenda.

This new leadership is committed to celebrating key dates to bring visibility to Haiti abroad. On October 28, 2024, for International Creole Language Day, the committee plans a day of Creole music at the campus bar, inviting students from all backgrounds to join a quiz on Haiti’s history, with prizes for the winners.

Another highlight will be November 14, a commemoration of the Battle of Vertières, featuring guest artists BIC, Tanbou Lakay, and Rèn Dara in a “Musical Gathering” to honor Haiti’s resilience amid current national challenges.

The committee believes that showcasing Haiti in such contexts can counter negative perceptions often associated with the Haitian diaspora.

Fenley Cius, the new president of the Haitian Student Committee, is a political activist, journalist, and former diplomacy student at Haiti’s Center for Diplomatic and International Studies (CEDI-Haiti).

Driven by a profound commitment to his country, he advocates for showcasing Haiti’s rich culture and history, convinced that such efforts help sustain hope and pride for a people with an enduring legacy.

Wallace Elie

The 15-member Council confirmed that the embargo does not apply to Haitian law enforcement, but is specifically directed at the country’s armed gangs.

This decision aims to curb the growing power of criminal groups while allowing Haitian authorities to procure the necessary equipment to maintain security in the country.

Contrary to certain interpretations, the resolution does not prohibit the supply of arms, ammunition, or military equipment to the multinational mission, the Haitian National Police (PNH), or the Haitian Armed Forces (FAd’H).

However, it mandates all UN member states to take measures to prevent any arms transfers to gangs, whether directly or indirectly, through their citizens or territories.

This new resolution reinforces the arms embargo in Haiti, while ensuring that law enforcement can continue their operations against armed groups. The text clearly states that the goal is to prevent gangs from acquiring weapons, ammunition, vehicles, and other paramilitary equipment.

It is a direct response to the rampant violence that has paralyzed the country for years, exacerbated by the illegal arming of gangs.In addition to the targeted embargo, the resolution extends the mandate of the expert committee responsible for monitoring the sanctions against Haiti for another year.

Since October 2022, this committee has overseen the implementation of restrictive measures, including travel bans, asset freezes, and the targeted arms embargo, particularly against gang leader Jimmy Chérizier, alias “Barbecue.

“Through this resolution, the international community aims to cut off the gangs’ sources of arms supplies while supporting Haitian institutions in their struggle to restore order.

These advisors are accused of passive corruption, as detailed in a report by the Anti-Corruption Unit (ULCC), and must respond to the serious allegations brought against them.The scandal came to light after Raoul Pierre-Louis, the former president of the board of the National Credit Bank (BNC), accused the three CPT members of corruption.

According to his claims, they demanded 100 million gourdes in exchange for keeping him as head of the state-owned bank.Following an investigation, the ULCC deemed the accusations credible and submitted its findings.

Judge Félismé will now proceed with hearing the three CPT advisors to address these allegations. Depending on the case’s progress, the charges could potentially lead to legal proceedings.

This high-profile case has raised concerns about the transparency and accountability of Haiti’s leadership, particularly within the Presidential Transition Council.

The outcome of this investigation could have far-reaching implications for the fight against corruption in public institutions.

Sources familiar with the talks said that U.S. officials stressed the need for unity and cooperation to ensure the success of Haiti’s political transition.

One American diplomat involved in the discussions reaffirmed the United States’ full support for the CPT and Haiti’s government in their efforts to restore security and organize elections. “It’s essential for Haitian leaders to work together and fulfill their commitments to the transition process,” he said.

“While the international community is prepared to assist, true leadership must come from within Haiti.”The message comes amid rising internal tensions and political divisions that have hampered Haiti’s progress toward stability.

As insecurity grows and public frustration mounts, the U.S. delegation warned Haitian officials of the risks of continued inaction, stressing that national interests should guide the decisions of the country’s leaders.

Restoring security and holding credible elections are seen as critical steps to break Haiti’s political impasse. The U.S. has signaled its readiness to support these efforts, but the responsibility now lies with Haitian authorities to turn words into actions.

Conille’s return comes at a tense political moment, as he’s been called to meet with the Presidential Transition Council (CPT) at Villa d’Accueil in the coming days. This meeting is expected to review his trip but will also likely touch on the prospect of a cabinet reshuffle.

For weeks, rumors have circulated about possible changes in the government. The CPT, led by Lesly Voltaire, is pressing for a realignment of the administration to better address Haiti’s deepening crises, particularly the escalating violence and economic instability. Sources suggest that several ministers may be replaced as part of this reorganization.

With political pressure mounting, Conille faces critical decisions that could reshape his administration and the country’s future.