PAP Times | Haitian News – Haiti News – Port au Prince Times – Haiti Times – Times https://paptimes.net Haitian News – Haiti News – Port au Prince Times – Haiti Times - Times Wed, 20 Nov 2024 16:44:42 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7 https://i0.wp.com/paptimes.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/cropped-pap-times-logo.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 PAP Times | Haitian News – Haiti News – Port au Prince Times – Haiti Times – Times https://paptimes.net 32 32 215424019 Toward a UN Peace Mission in Haiti https://paptimes.net/news/toward-a-un-peace-mission-in-haiti/ Wed, 20 Nov 2024 16:44:32 +0000 https://paptimes.net/?p=3503 Russia and China, often critical of Western-led initiatives, have surprisingly expressed openness to a joint proposal by the United States and Ecuador.

The plan seeks to transition the Security and Stability Mission in Haiti (SSMH) into a United Nations Peace Mission. A key meeting of the UN Security Council is scheduled for Wednesday to discuss the potential framework for this shift.

According to a Haitian diplomat accredited to the UN, who requested anonymity, several factors have influenced this rare alignment by Moscow and Beijing. Chief among them is a recent incident involving U.S. commercial planes targeted by projectiles in Haitian airspace, raising alarm over the escalating instability. Additionally, the intensifying violence in Port-au-Prince has underscored the urgent need for stronger international intervention.

For the United States, which has spearheaded the SSMH, transitioning the mission to a UN mandate offers strategic advantages. It would grant the mission greater international legitimacy and unlock critical resources to address Haiti’s deepening security and humanitarian crises effectively.

This potential transformation marks a significant step in addressing the ongoing turmoil in Haiti, as global powers seek a unified response to restore stability and peace.

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Haiti Unveils New Military Base in Tabarre, Named “Vertières https://paptimes.net/national-news/haiti-unveils-new-military-base-in-tabarre-named-vertieres/ Tue, 19 Nov 2024 10:43:00 +0000 https://paptimes.net/?p=3500 On Monday, November 18, 2024, the Haitian Armed Forces (FAd’H) officially inaugurated a new military base in Tabarre during the 221st anniversary of the Battle of Vertières. The event, led by the Presidential Transition Council (CPT), marked a significant step in the military’s modernization efforts.

Named “Vertières” in honor of the historic battle that secured Haiti’s independence, the new base is expected to become a cornerstone of the FAd’H’s revitalization. Leslie Voltaire, President of the CPT, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating that the site represents more than a military facility—it is a symbol of national renewal.

“The new Vertières base is not just a place to remember our past victories. It is a foundation for building a modern, disciplined, and efficient army that will serve the Haitian people,” Voltaire declared.

The announcement also carried a broader call to action. Voltaire invoked the need for a “second national independence,” urging citizens to unite and confront the country’s deepening social, economic, and security challenges.

The establishment of this military base is part of a broader plan to restore and modernize the FAd’H. While some see this as a step toward reinforcing national stability, critics question the prioritization of military investments in a nation grappling with urgent humanitarian needs and systemic crises.

Despite these concerns, the inauguration of the Vertières base signals a renewed commitment to strengthen the country’s institutions. Whether this initiative will bring tangible change or remain a symbolic gesture depends on the political will and effectiveness of the CPT and the FAd’H in addressing Haiti’s pressing challenges.

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Trump Confirms Use of Military to Expel Illegal Migrants https://paptimes.net/news/trump-confirms-use-of-military-to-expel-illegal-migrants/ Mon, 18 Nov 2024 20:12:25 +0000 https://paptimes.net/?p=3497 President-elect Donald Trump announced on Monday, November 18, 2024, his intention to declare a national emergency to expel migrants who entered the United States illegally.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump endorsed a statement from John Fitton, president of Judicial Watch, who claimed the new administration is preparing to use active military forces to carry out the deportations. Trump simply replied: “Yes. It’s true!”The announcement has stirred intense debate, with supporters applauding a tough stance on immigration, while critics express alarm over the potential misuse of military powers and the violation of migrant rights.

Details of the plan remain unclear, particularly regarding the military units to be involved and the legal framework for such action.

As the nation awaits further clarification, Trump’s statement signals a bold and controversial approach to immigration enforcement in his upcoming term.

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French Ambassador in Haiti Expresses Support for Victims of Gang Violence https://paptimes.net/news/french-ambassador-in-haiti-expresses-support-for-victims-of-gang-violence/ Mon, 18 Nov 2024 14:04:06 +0000 https://paptimes.net/?p=3494 Antoine Michon, the French Ambassador to Haiti, has sent a message of condolences and solidarity to the victims of violence perpetrated by armed gangs in the Haitian capital. The message, posted on his X account, highlights the growing concern over the humanitarian crisis that is ravaging the country, particularly in the Port-au-Prince area.

In his message, Michon expressed solidarity with the thousands of Haitians who have been forced to flee their homes due to violent clashes. “Thoughts with the thousands of people forced to leave their homes. Full support to the PNH, FADH, and MMAS who are courageously fighting against the criminals,” he wrote.

The diplomat praised the efforts of Haitian authorities, particularly the Haitian National Police (PNH), the Armed Forces of Haiti (FADH), and the Ministry of Public Health and Population (MMAS), who continue their relentless fight against the criminal groups that have plunged the capital into terror.

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New Minister of Justice and Public Security, Me Patrick Pélissier, Takes Office https://paptimes.net/national-news/new-minister-of-justice-and-public-security-me-patrick-pelissier-takes-office/ Mon, 18 Nov 2024 13:53:56 +0000 https://paptimes.net/?p=3491 On November 17, 2024, Me Patrick Pélissier officially assumed his role as Haiti’s new Minister of Justice and Public Security (MJSP). The swearing-in ceremony was held at the Prime Minister’s office in Musseau, with Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils Aimé presiding over the event.

In his inaugural speech, Me Pélissier expressed his unwavering commitment to strengthening Haiti’s judicial system. He emphasized the need to restore public confidence in the judicial institutions and to promote equitable justice that is accessible to all citizens, without discrimination.

“I am committed to working closely with all institutions to ensure impartial justice and the protection of human rights across the entire country,” stated the new minister. His message comes at a time when many Haitians are calling for reforms in a judicial system criticized for its inefficiency and slow processes.

Me Patrick Pélissier also highlighted the importance of public security in ensuring the proper functioning of the judicial apparatus. He pledged to tackle impunity and prioritize the protection of fundamental rights during his tenure. This assumption of office comes at a time when Haiti continues to face significant challenges related to insecurity and structural issues within its institutions.

Observers are now keen to see if Minister Pélissier will meet the expectations of the public and institutional actors in this critical sector for the country’s stability and development.

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Government Formation Stalled by Personal Interests https://paptimes.net/news/government-formation-stalled-by-personal-interests/ Fri, 15 Nov 2024 10:15:08 +0000 https://paptimes.net/?p=3483 As the Haitian population sinks deeper into an unprecedented humanitarian and security crisis, political leaders are entangled in internal power struggles over control of the future government. For weeks, negotiations to form a leadership team have faltered due to deep divisions among key decision-makers.

Presidential advisors, who are supposed to facilitate a successful transition, are split into two irreconcilable factions. One side aims to monopolize strategic positions, while the other firmly opposes what it sees as a blatant power grab. In the midst of this standoff, Prime Minister Didier Fils-Aimé is also pushing for appointments that would benefit him, further complicating the situation.

This institutional paralysis is cause for alarm. It threatens to plunge the country into yet another transition—an ironic twist in a period already described as a “transition within a transition.” Personal ambitions and political agendas appear to take precedence over the nation’s urgent needs, leaving the population to fend for itself.

In the streets, anger is growing. Citizens, caught between gang violence and the collapse of public services, are denouncing the leaders’ inaction. “They fight over positions while we die under gunfire,” lamented a Port-au-Prince resident.

The current deadlock once again highlights the Haitian political class’s inability to come together to address the country’s immense challenges. As conditions deteriorate, history appears to repeat itself: personal interests prevail, and the people continue to pay the ultimate price.

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CPT Blocks Appointment of Foreign Minister Critical of Dominican Republic https://paptimes.net/news/cpt-blocks-appointment-of-foreign-minister-critical-of-dominican-republic/ Thu, 14 Nov 2024 17:09:28 +0000 https://paptimes.net/?p=3479 The formation of Haiti’s ministerial cabinet remains in limbo, as the Transitional Presidential Council (CPT) reportedly pressures for specific strategic nominations, particularly for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The CPT has blocked the nomination of a candidate for this key position, insisting on a figure who has never voiced criticism of the Dominican Republic. This decision has intensified tensions surrounding the appointment process.

According to sources close to the matter, a leading candidate for the Foreign Ministry was sidelined by the CPT due to prior remarks deemed “hostile” towards the Dominican Republic.

This move exposes a CPT directive to avoid any figure likely to publicly criticize or condemn Dominican actions, even when they significantly impact Haitians.

Observers note that, so far, CPT advisors have not expressed any formal objection to the widespread deportations of Haitians carried out by Dominican authorities.

This silence, interpreted by some as tacit approval, suggests a political stance that may undermine Haiti’s national interests, as many Haitians continue to face discrimination and regular expulsions from across the border.

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New Haitian Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé Pledges to Address Escalating Security Crisis https://paptimes.net/national-news/new-haitian-prime-minister-alix-didier-fils-aime-pledges-to-address-escalating-security-crisis/ Wed, 13 Nov 2024 01:39:31 +0000 https://paptimes.net/?p=3476 At the official installation ceremony of Haiti’s new Prime Minister, Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, held on Monday, November 11, there were strong calls for urgent action to address the country’s spiraling security crisis.

During the event, Munson Jean, Deputy Coordinator of the Citizen Initiative Against Insecurity (ISAKE), expressed the organization’s expectations that Prime Minister Fils-Aimé will prioritize the safety of the population and collaborate with key stakeholders to restore stability.

Haiti has been grappling with an alarming rise in violence, with kidnappings, gang activity, and criminal acts affecting daily life across the nation. This security situation has become one of the country’s most pressing issues, drawing calls from various sectors for immediate government intervention.

ISAKE, a citizen-led organization dedicated to combating insecurity, recently met with outgoing Minister of Justice and Public Security Carlos Hercule to discuss possible strategies for tackling the escalating crisis.Jean emphasized that ISAKE is hopeful Prime Minister Fils-Aimé will adopt a proactive approach and listen to the concerns of Haitian citizens.

“We are at a critical juncture, and the people of Haiti need leadership that is committed to ensuring their safety,” Jean stated. “We hope that Fils-Aimé will make security his top priority and take concrete actions to protect our communities.

”As the new administration begins its term, public expectations are high, especially among civil society groups like ISAKE that have long advocated for stronger security measures.

The response of the Fils-Aimé government to the country’s security challenges will be a decisive factor in restoring citizens’ trust in public institutions.

In the coming weeks, all eyes will be on Prime Minister Fils-Aimé as he outlines his administration’s security agenda. Haiti is facing a crucial test, and many hope this government will finally implement lasting solutions to curb violence and promote stability.

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Gunfire Near Port-au-Prince Airport Forces Spirit Airlines Flight Diversion https://paptimes.net/news/gunfire-near-port-au-prince-airport-forces-spirit-airlines-flight-diversion/ Mon, 11 Nov 2024 18:27:52 +0000 https://paptimes.net/?p=3474 On Monday morning, gunfire erupted near Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince, forcing a Spirit Airlines flight from Fort Lauderdale to change its route due to safety concerns.

Sources from the airport reported that the aircraft, originally scheduled to land in Haiti’s capital, was diverted to the Dominican Republic after gunshots made it unsafe to approach the airport.

Passengers on board the diverted flight were notified mid-air about the unexpected change, as security conditions around the airport had rapidly deteriorated.

The gunfire, whose source and intent remain unclear, temporarily blocked access to the airport and prevented the safe arrival of incoming flights.This incident adds to a series of disruptions caused by armed groups in Haiti, impacting essential services and infrastructure in the country.

As violence near public spaces like the airport intensifies, residents and visitors alike face heightened risks, underscoring the pressing need for stability in the region.

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Alix Didier Fils-Aimé Named Prime Minister Amid Haiti’s Crisis https://paptimes.net/news/alix-didier-fils-aime-named-prime-minister-amid-haitis-crisis/ Mon, 11 Nov 2024 00:20:53 +0000 https://paptimes.net/?p=3471 In a bold move aimed at steering Haiti through a period of extreme uncertainty, the Transitional Presidential Council (KPT) has appointed Alix Didier Fils-Aimé as the new Prime Minister. His nomination, backed by eight of the nine council members, was formally announced in Le Moniteur, Haiti’s official government publication, marking a pivotal shift in leadership.

Haiti is grappling with a complex mix of challenges, including a deteriorating security situation, economic struggles, and widespread social unrest. Against this backdrop, Fils-Aimé’s appointment comes as an attempt by the KPT to restore stability and initiate meaningful reform. His role will be instrumental in navigating the delicate transitional phase toward a more resilient political framework and a government capable of addressing the nation’s pressing issues.

The council’s overwhelming support—almost unanimous except for one dissenting vote—underscores a collective determination for political cohesion. This endorsement is a rare show of unity in Haitian politics, which has long been plagued by deep-seated divisions and factional struggles. For many observers, Fils-Aimé’s nomination symbolizes a renewed commitment to institutional reforms and a concerted push for security and economic recovery.

The KPT’s decision comes with high expectations for Fils-Aimé to build momentum for political and economic stability. His leadership will likely be defined by his ability to address immediate crises while setting the stage for long-term structural change. As he takes office, Haitians remain cautiously hopeful, eager for progress and leadership that can bring the nation closer to peace and prosperity.

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