Haiti’s government teeters on the brink of collapse amid escalating violence and political turmoil, with both a former coup leader and a notorious gang boss intensifying their calls for the prime minister’s resignation. The situation has reached a critical juncture as Jimmy Chérizier, a former police officer known as “Barbecue” and the head of the powerful “Revolutionary Forces of the G9 Family and Allies” gang, spearheads what has been dubbed the “Gang Coup.”
March 8th, 22:00 EST: Recent reports indicate the most severe insurrection yet, with anti-government forces conducting coordinated assaults on key locations in Port-au-Prince. These include the international airport, the presidential palace, and several government ministries. In addition, there are reports that Haiti’s Interior Ministry building has been set on fire by armed gang members.
The crisis has effectively stranded Prime Minister Ariel Henry outside of the country. Following a diplomatic mission to Kenya seeking security support, Henry finds himself unable to return to Haiti due to the armed takeover of the Port-au-Prince airport. Currently, he is in Puerto Rico, caught in a dire predicament as the chaos unfolds at home.
The United States has issued a stark warning, urging American citizens to evacuate Haiti immediately. In response to the deteriorating security environment, plans are underway to deploy a Marine Corps Security Force Regiment to assist in stabilizing the situation.
Update: U.S. closes embassy in Haiti after nearby gunshots.
Adding to the complexity of the crisis, Guy Philippe, a key figure in the 2004 Haitian coup, has publicly demanded Prime Minister Henry’s resignation, further indicating the broad spectrum of opposition Henry faces.
This is a developing story
