Haiti’s leadership reshuffled its ministerial lineup on Tuesday, completing the cabinet under Prime Minister Garry Conille amid the country’s ongoing struggle against armed gangs and humanitarian crises.
Following Prime Minister Conille’s recent appointment, the cabinet overhaul marks a significant departure from the previous administration, with all ministers from former Prime Minister Ariel Henry’s tenure replaced.
Notably, several new appointees were selected from outside Haiti’s traditional political circles.
The nation’s deepening social and political turmoil, exacerbated by the assassination of the president in 2021, has seen gang influence expand, leading to widespread displacement of civilians.
In a notable shift, Prime Minister Conille will concurrently serve as interior minister, gaining control over much of Haiti’s security forces and intelligence operations.
Conille, returning to the prime ministerial role after a previous term over a decade ago, brings considerable experience, having most recently served with UNICEF.
Carlos Hercule, a former head of the Port-au-Prince bar association, assumes leadership of the justice ministry.
Tasked with navigating a paralyzed judicial system and coordinating efforts against powerful gangs, Hercule faces significant challenges.
Ketleen Florestal, a Princeton-educated advisor to multilateral lenders, assumes leadership of the finance ministry, also overseeing the planning and international cooperation portfolio.
Jean Marc Berthier Antoine is appointed to lead the defense ministry, overseeing Haiti’s re-established army, while Dominique Dupuy, Haiti’s UNESCO ambassador, takes charge of foreign affairs and the diaspora ministry.
Meanwhile, Antoine Augustin, a university professor and advocate of the 2021 Montana Accord opposing the previous government, will jointly oversee the education and communications ministries.
Separately, Prime Minister Conille discussed with U.S. Ambassador Dennis Hankins the long-delayed support for a security force aimed at strengthening Haitian law enforcement in combating gang activities.
These ministerial appointments signal a concerted effort to address Haiti’s multifaceted challenges, marking a fresh approach to governance amid ongoing crises.
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