Haiti's Recent Challenges: Blackout, Drone Strikes, New Constitution Draft
Haiti has faced a series of challenges recently, including a 10-day blackout in Port-au-Prince and surrounding areas, gang violence leading to drone strikes, and political developments such as a new constitution draft and an upcoming 'patriotic congress'.
The power outage, which lasted from 13 to 23 May, was caused by civil society protests against gang violence. The sabotage at the Péligre hydroelectric plant, Haiti's main power source, left residents without electricity for 10 days. Fritz Alphonse Jean, the Prime Minister, met with affected residents and promised improved security measures, leading to the plant's restart.
In a separate incident, drone strikes targeted a gang leader's base in Gran Ravin, Port-au-Prince, on 20 May. The operation, carried out by unknown parties, resulted in at least 25 deaths and 40 injuries. Meanwhile, Germine Joly, another gang leader, was tried in Washington, D.C., for his alleged role in the 2021 kidnapping of 17 U.S. missionaries.
Politically, the Transitional Presidential Council, also known as the Libyan Presidential Council, received the preliminary draft of the new constitution on 21 May. A constitutional referendum is reportedly planned for this summer. Additionally, a 'patriotic congress' is scheduled for 31 May to 21 June, aiming to unite Haitians around security, political transition, and institutional reform.
The recent events highlight the complex challenges Haiti faces, from gang violence and power outages to political transitions and constitutional reforms. The upcoming 'patriotic congress' and constitutional referendum suggest a path forward, but the country must also address the pressing issues of security and basic services.
