End of the CPT's Mandate, Mixed Record of Advisors, and a New Phase Centered on Prime Minister Fils-Aimé

Haiti's political transition reaches a new stage this February 7, 2026, with the official end of the mandate of the Transitional Presidential Council (CPT). While the capital awoke in relative calm, public statements from political actors, particularly those from the outgoing members of the Transitional Presidential Council (CPT), reflect a nuanced record, persistent concerns, and strong expectations surrounding the now central role of Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé. Emmanuel Vertilaire: Acknowledgment of Unmet Objectives In a statement addressed to the nation, Emmanuel Vertilaire, a member of the Transitional Presidential Council (CPT), acknowledged that the major objectives assigned to the transition, particularly the restoration of national security, the creation of conditions necessary for credible elections, and the return to constitutional order, have not been fully achieved. While highlighting « sustained efforts » and « sacrifices made, » he stated that he is leaving his post « peacefully, » invoking respect for republican legality and the rule of law. His message is both clear-sighted and hopeful, emphasizing the complexity of the institutional and human challenges that Haiti continues to face. This stance reflects a form of defensive assessment: an acknowledgment of limitations, but an affirmation of actions guided by republican principles. Smith Augustin: Between Concern, Defense of Record, and Call to Youth For his part, Smith Augustin, another member of the Transitional Presidential Council (CPT), adopted a more personal and reflective tone. He stated that he is leaving his post « without bitterness, » while expressing a « real concern » for the future of the country. He emphasized certain achievements claimed during the transition, including:

1. Haiti's diplomatic representation on the international stage,
2. initiatives in favor of higher education and research,
3. as well as efforts aimed at improving access to justice.

Smith Augustin also acknowledged the existence of errors and imperfect decisions, while affirming that he acted with respect for republican values. His speech included a strong call to Haitian youth to engage in public life, emphasizing the need for a new generation of competent and integral leaders. A Transition Concluding Without Elections The common observation in these statements remains the absence of elections that would have allowed for the return to a democratically elected power, despite being a central objective of the CPT's mandate. This situation fuels criticism from a segment of public opinion, which believes that the transition has not produced the expected results in terms of security, institutional stability, and governance. Alix Didier Fils-Aimé Now Sole Master and Lord According to several political analyses and information circulating in the public sphere, Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé is now expected to assume an expanded role, de facto combining the functions of head of government and those associated with leading the executive. Some observers believe he benefits from significant support from international partners, which could strengthen his capacity for action, but also increase expectations placed upon him. Support, Criticism, and Expectations Public reactions remain mixed. Entrepreneur Brad Bartholy Cadet advocates for a « real break » with political practices he deems unproductive and calls for a new, more responsible political class, while expressing his support for the Prime Minister to ensure stability and governance. Conversely, other voices, such as Richard Sénacal's, emphasize that the current concentration of power levers around the head of government means no excuses can be invoked in case of failure, implicitly pointing to the need for tangible results. A New Phase Full of Uncertainties The end of the CPT does not necessarily mark the end of Haiti's political crisis. Rather, it opens a new phase whose institutional contours are still debated. Security, economic, and institutional challenges persist, while the question of democratic legitimacy remains central. In this context, the new executive's ability to establish a climate of trust, improve security, and prepare a credible return to constitutional order will be one of the main political tests in the coming months. Jean Wesley Pierre / Le Relief