Haiti’s Presidential Council Dissolves, Deepening Political Uncertainty
The nine-member council created to guide Haiti toward national elections and restore democratic governance, failed to overcome persistent disagreements over leadership, security policy and electoral timelines. Its collapse leaves the Caribbean nation without a broadly accepted political authority at a time when armed gangs control large parts of th
e capital and key transport routes. Members of the council confirmed the decision late on Friday, acknowledging that the body was no longer able to function effectively. Several members cited a lack of consensus and limited executive power as reasons for stepping aside. The dissolution effectively consolidates power around the interim prime minister, who remains in office with international backing but without an elected mandate. Critics say the arrangement risks further eroding public trust and could inflame tensions among rival political factions. Haiti has been without an elected president since the assassination of Jovenel Moise in 2021. Since then, repeated attempts to establish transitional governance structures have faltered amid insecurity, economic collapse and widespread humanitarian need. According to the United Nations, more than half the population now requires humanitarian assistance, while gang violence has displaced hundreds of thousands. International partners including the United States and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) had supported the presidential council as a compromise solution aimed at paving the way for elections. In a brief statement, CARICOM said it was concerned by the council’s dissolution and urged Haitian leaders to prioritise dialogue and a credible path toward democratic polls. No immediate replacement body has been announced and it remains unclear how election preparations will proceed. Security analysts warn that the political vacuum could further embolden armed groups, complicating plans for an international security mission intended to help Haitian police regain control. For many Haitians, the council’s failure reinforces a deep sense of frustration. “Every new structure promises change but nothing improves,” a Port-au-Prince resident quoted over phone call. We need security, food and a chance to vote. With the council dissolved and elections still out of reach, Haiti’s transition appears once again stalled, underscoring the scale of the crisis facing the country and the difficulty of restoring stable governance. Source: AP News