Rising Tension in Haiti Amidst Premier's Resignation

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The situation in Haiti continues to deteriorate as violent clashes between criminal gangs and the police escalated on the evening of Friday, March 15, 2024. The imminent resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry on Monday has done little to quell the increasing unrest.

Violence Erupts in Capital City

In the neighborhoods of the capital, Port-au-Prince, fires were set and roads were blocked on Friday evening. Numerous encounters between the gangs and the police were reported. This wave of violence and chaos has been ongoing for some time in the country, reaching a critical point earlier this month when the government declared a state of emergency.

Premier’s Resignation Awaits

The 74-year-old Henry, who announced his resignation from Puerto Rico earlier this week, is set to step down on Monday. However, it remains unclear who will succeed him. The gangs, impatient for his departure, have not waited for the official date.

Opinions from Prominent Gang Leader and Citizens

Prominent gang leader, Jimmy Chérizier, has commented on the situation, stating that the resignation of Henry is “just the first step” in the struggle the gangs are waging. A local resident spoke to Reuters about the political crisis, stating, “Prime Minister Henry is stepping down, but the political emergency remains. Politicians must take on the task of reorganizing the country.”

Earlier, hundreds of prisoners had escaped following attacks by criminal gangs led by Chérizier. As the political turmoil unfolds, the country continues to grapple with escalating violence and lawlessness.