The situation in Haiti is rapidly deteriorating as gang leader Jimmy “Barbecue” Chérizier has warned of a “civil war” if Prime Minister Ariel Henry does not step down. Chérizier’s gang tried to seize the airport to prevent Henry’s return, causing thousands to flee their homes. UN figures show that over 1,000 people have been killed and hundreds injured by gang violence this year. The United States has called for a transition to a new government to pave the way for free and fair elections. Henry’s whereabouts were unknown until he boarded a flight to Puerto Rico, while diplomatic pressure mounts for him to agree to a transitional government. Chérizier, who leads the G9 alliance, has been escalating violence in Haiti and has opposed Henry’s rule since he took power after President Jovenel Moïse’s assassination. Critics argue that Henry’s rule is illegitimate as he has not organized elections as promised. The violence has led to kidnappings, school and hospital closures, and widespread fear among the population. The United Nations Security Council will hold an emergency meeting to address the crisis. The violence is not only concentrated in the capital but has also spread to other areas of the country. The lack of elected officials has allowed gangs to control much of the country, further destabilizing the situation.
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