As gangs attack police stations in Haiti, Caribbean leaders call an emergency meeting Monday
PBS NewsHourFeb 28
Haiti: Prime Minister Henry Resigns Amid National Instability
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The Facts
After meeting with regional leaders in Jamaica on Monday to discuss a political transition in Haiti following a surge in gang violence, Prime Minister Ariel Henry has agreed to step down.
In a video posted Monday, Henry announced that his government will resign once a transitional council has been formed, emphasizing the importance of peace for Haiti. Henry's government will serve as a caretaker government until a new prime minister and cabinet are appointed.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
The decision by Prime Minister Ariel Henry to resign signals that he accepts responsibility for the Caribbean nation's grave security situation but also that he's willing to head the transitional government until a new administration has been elected. The armed gangs have demanded that Henry resign or risk civil war. The regional Caribbean Community and Common Market (CARICOM) has offered the necessary tools for a peaceful democratic transition once the UN's multinational security force arrives in Haiti.
Establishment-critical narrative
The Prime Minister has done what the gangs have requested him to do. He resigned. However, this does not appear to be sufficient for the gangs, who have pledged to attack any foreign troops. They regard a UN-led multinational security force in Haiti as a provocation. The gangs will not be represented in the presidential college, whose policies might even unintentionally fuel even more violence and riots. Haiti will have to brace itself because it looks like it will get worse before it gets any better.
