CARICOM’S EPG makes Third Visit to Haiti; Framework for Elections trudging through Consultations

Rashaed Esson

Staff Writer 

#Haiti, December 15, 2023 – CARICOM’s Eminent Persons Group (EPG) made a third visit to Haiti and they reiterated that the troubled Republic is still hurting.

Shortly after the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moise, Haiti’s economic and social fabric began to wear away as crime got out of control, giving life to the ongoing humanitarian crisis. Since then, it has gotten more and more out of control and CARICOM emphasizes this in a release regarding the EPG’s visit.

“The cycle of depredations and violence of the armed gangs continues, expanding to new areas and adding to the already high number of victims,” it said.

They went to Haiti during the period of November 8th to the14th, called to action by information that a tentative agreement was reached regarding “areas of convergence following concessions made by Prime Minister Henry during informal discussions,” which occurred while the group wasn’t in the country.

However, despite not being there during the time of their making, the EPG intends to build on these tabled factors which includes the broadening and fortifying of the attributes of the High Transition Council to encourage better balance of executive power, the composition of the Provisional Electoral Council, the designation of a body to oversee government action and the establishment of an inclusive government of national unity. These are important aspects to promote a healthy country.

The release pointed out that previous positions for the current Prime Minister to leave office were still held.

“It was immediately apparent in the course of the EPG’s discussions that the earlier intransigent position of some sections of the opposition group insisting on the resignation of the Prime Minister as a pre-condition for meaningful discussions still prevailed. The governance concessions the Prime Minister was willing to make were brushed aside, perceived as an effort to prolong his tenure,” it said.

Considering all, the EPG is drafting a framework of accord that acknowledges the points voiced by stakeholders. Also, this is due to the positive responses of the stakeholders to a proposal made by the EPG.

Comprising the EPG are former Prime Ministers Kenny Anthony of St Lucia,Bruce Golding of Jamaica and Perry Christie of The Bahamas.