Haiti: Handover of Power, International Community Opts for Stability

The end of the mandate of the Transitional Presidential Council (CPT) on February 7, and the transfer of power to the Prime Minister, have provoked several international reactions. Overall, Haiti's foreign partners have adopted a simple position: avoid a political vacuum, maintain state continuity, and move towards elections.

Several countries and organizations have welcomed a transition deemed necessary to keep a governmental leadership in place. Their priority is clear: preserve a minimum of stability in a context already marked by insecurity and institutional crisis.

The United States has reaffirmed its support for the current governmental authorities, emphasizing above all the security emergency. Washington focuses on the fight against armed groups, the strengthening of security forces, and the preparation of credible elections. Firm messages have also been sent against actors accused of blocking the transition process.

In the region, CARICOM has adopted a pragmatic position. Caribbean countries, involved from the outset in discussions on the Haitian transition, believe it is better to ensure the continuity of power than to risk an institutional rupture. They nevertheless encourage broader dialogue among Haitian actors.

From the international organizations' side, the message is also direct: no power vacuum, but a short, clear transition oriented towards elections. The UN and inter-American bodies reiterate that the priority remains security, a minimum political agreement among national forces, and the organization of the ballot.

European partners, for their part, primarily speak of a return to constitutional order. They support the principle of continuity, while calling for transparency, political inclusion, and a serious electoral calendar.

In summary, the international reaction is primarily practical: accept the handover of power to avoid chaos, support immediate stability, and push authorities to organize elections to restore democratic legitimacy to the country.

Gesly Sinvilier / Le Relief