Laurent Saint-Cyr, a prominent businessman, was appointed head of Haiti’s transitional presidential council, marking a historic moment where both the rotating presidency and prime minister roles are filled by private sector figures.
His appointment came as the country continues to reel from gang violence, political instability, and deepening crises. Saint-Cyr, who started in the insurance sector, emphasized immediate action over rhetoric, stating, “It’s not the time for beautiful speeches. It’s time to act.”
Just before Saint-Cyr’s swearing-in, gang leader Jimmy “Barbecue” Chérizier, head of the powerful Viv Ansanm federation, threatened to overthrow the government. He urged Haitians to allow his fighters free passage, positioning his cause as a “battle to free the country.”
Gunfire erupted in Port-au-Prince, highlighting how 90% of the capital is under gang control. A UN-backed mission led by Kenyan police claimed to have averted attacks through heavy patrolling.
Saint-Cyr Urges Unity, International Support Amid Criticism Over Rights And Elite Control
Saint-Cyr called for collaboration among all national sectors and international partners. Though he hails from the private sector, he promised to represent all Haitians. Working alongside new Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, Saint-Cyr emphasized restoring security and state authority.
He appealed for more international troops, resources, and training to bolster Haiti’s under-resourced mission, while criticizing the government’s lack of service delivery in health and education.
Despite the political change, civil society organizations have voiced serious concerns. Fifty-eight international organizations accused the transitional council of failing to protect women and girls, highlighting widespread sexual violence and the government’s absence in shelters for rape survivors.
Critics argue that the rise of private sector figures in leadership, some of whom have been linked to gang financing, reinforces elite control rather than delivering meaningful reform.
Divided Public Opinion Deepens As Violence Surges And Haiti’s Security Mission Struggles
Public sentiment on Saint-Cyr’s appointment is divided. While some Haitians voiced deep skepticism about elite rule and broken promises from past transitional leaders, others rallied in support.
Clashes broke out between supporters and detractors near the council’s office. One supporter dismissed racial and class criticisms by stating, “Even though he’s a mulatto with good hair, he’s Haitian.” Saint-Cyr replaces Fritz Alphonse Jean in the rotating presidency.
The capital remained tense during the swearing-in. Local news reported multiple shootings and one confirmed death, with social media posts warning residents to stay alert. Armed skirmishes and explosions were heard downtown, and violence extended to Kenscoff, a formerly tranquil rural area.
UN peacekeepers faced attacks, losing armored vehicles to gang blockades and Molotov cocktail assaults. Videos of armed gangs mocking the security forces circulated online.
The UN-backed security mission is critically under-resourced, with only 991 personnel versus a target of 2,500, and a trust fund of just $112 million out of an estimated $800 million annual need. With limited air support and inadequate equipment, only 200 officers can be deployed at a time.
As political infighting paralyzes the transitional government, gangs remain emboldened. The humanitarian toll continues to climb, with over 1.3 million displaced and more than 1,500 killed between April and June alone.
