UN calls for renewed efforts to establish peace and hold elections in Haiti

Port-au-Prince.- The United Nations Office in Haiti (BINUH) has urged the country’s political actors to intensify efforts toward restoring social peace and organizing long-overdue elections. Haiti, currently mired in a severe crisis, faces widespread violence, particularly in and around Port-au-Prince, where political stability is crucial to improving the nation’s dire situation.

BINUH praised the ongoing efforts of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and other mediators supporting Haiti and called on all parties to work toward a transitional solution that aligns with the aspirations and needs of the Haitian people. The office reiterated its commitment to supporting initiatives that rebuild public trust in Haitian authorities.

The call for stability comes as Haiti experiences a temporary calm following the police killing of Kendy, alias “Jeff Mafia,” the second-in-command of a major criminal gang led by former police officer Jimmy Cherisier, known as “Barbecue.” In retaliation, gangs spread terror on Sunday, setting homes ablaze and firing weapons in parts of the capital. This violence follows two recent massacres that left over 200 dead, highlighting the gangs’ control of more than 80% of Port-au-Prince and its surroundings, while police and UN forces struggle with limited resources to restore order.