Embattled Haiti leader Ariel Henry has resigned after weeks of simmering violence by organised gangs in the country’s capital, Port-au-Prince.
Henry’s resignation as the country’s acting President and Prime Minister would hopefully save the country from the brink of collapse.
Henry’s advisor Jean Junior Joseph confirmed the resignation in a statement to CNN, emphasising he would remain in his role until the formation of a new interim government.
Guyana leader and current Caribbean Community and Common Market (CARICOM) Chairman Irfaan Ali echoed the sentiments on Monday, March 11, evening at a press briefing.
Ali, flanked by other Caribbean leaders, said Henry would call an end to his tenure upon the naming of a new interim premier.
“We acknowledge his resignation upon the establishment of a transitional presidential council and naming of an interim prime minister,” he said, thanking Henry for his work in the Caribbean nation.
What will Haiti’s transitional government do
CARICOM leaders said the transitional government’s core mandate would be working towards an election and peaceful transition.
“We are pleased to announce the commitment to transitional governance arrangement which paves the way for a peaceful transition of power, continuity of governance and action plan for near term security and the road to free and fair elections. It further seeks to assure that Haiti will be governed by the rule of law,” the statement said.