Haitian Health Minister dismissed after incident kills two journalists and a police officer

Haiti.- Health Minister Duckenson Lorthé Blaima has been dismissed following a tragic event during the reopening of the University Hospital of Haiti (HUEH), which led to the deaths of two journalists and a police officer. The incident occurred due to a lack of coordination with relevant authorities, including the failure to notify the police to implement security measures, allowing armed individuals to act during the event.

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Blaima’s team denied the accusations, asserting that all necessary arrangements were made for the event’s success. However, after a meeting between President Leslie Voltaire and Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, the decision was made to remove Blaima from his position.

Justice Minister Patrick Pélissier is expected to serve as interim Health Minister until a permanent replacement is appointed. The government has also formed a special commission to investigate the incident and provide a detailed report. A government spokesperson emphasized the priority of citizen safety and pledged a transparent investigation to prevent future occurrences.