Haiti: Catholic Bishops Take a Stand on the Political Crisis

Different segments of Haitian society are concerned about the current political crisis. While political leaders and groups continue to propose solutions, Catholic bishops are not remaining silent.

Through their 2025 Christmas message, they call for the adoption of new leadership, particularly political, to restore peace and pave the way for credible elections in the country.

The Episcopal Conference of Haiti (CEH) states that the current situation, marked by uncertainty, demands responsible choices and a genuine commitment to the common good.

“This renewal must conform to the principles of the 1987 Constitution, as the deadline of February 7, 2026, marking the end of the Transitional Presidential Council's mandate, approaches,” it recalled.

The men of God also invite the nation's vital forces to transcend personal interests. They urge political leaders, public institutions, and social actors to adopt an attitude of responsibility and respect. They believe that every decision can either contribute to calming the national climate or reigniting tensions.

Regarding elections, the CEH insists on the urgency of establishing a secure environment before any popular consultation. According to the bishops, holding free and credible elections depends on a climate of real security, a prerequisite and a guarantee primarily by national authorities, with the support of their international partners.

While entrusting the country to Christ, the prelates emphasize that, despite a context of widespread suffering, the light of Christmas remains a symbol of hope for a people in search of stability. They recall that the Christian faith offers essential moral support and invite citizens to remain active in the search for solutions, even citing the surge of unity sparked by the recent qualification of the national football team for the 2026 World Cup.

Gedeon Delva