In a show of dissent, hundreds of Haitians took to the streets on Monday, protesting against Prime Minister Ariel Henry’s unelected government. Amidst the administration’s tenure, violent gang alliances have expanded control, plaguing the capital and surrounding areas. The use of tear gas by national police aimed to disperse demonstrators who set fire to car tires, shrouding streets in gray smoke.
Prime Minister Ariel Henry assumed office following the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moise, leading to a power vacuum. Two dominant alliances, G9 and G-Pep, have fueled clashes involving rival gangs, police, and civilian vigilante groups. The resulting chaos has subjected local residents to indiscriminate killings, sexual violence, looting, kidnappings-for-ransom, and arson.
Protesters expressed frustration, citing Henry’s perceived inaction and the pervasive insecurity affecting daily life. Dominique Thelemaque stated, “Henry has done absolutely nothing for the population.” The demonstration aimed not to replace Henry but to challenge the existing system.
Human Rights Watch estimates around 300,000 people are internally displaced due to the escalating violence. The United Nations reports that 170,000 children face internal displacement, with nearly half the population experiencing hunger due to restricted movement of food, aid, and people caused by the conflict.
