Haiti's New Cabinet Targets Gang Dominance in Capital with UN Support

Haiti's transitional council has taken a significant step towards rebuilding the government amidst ongoing turmoil by appointing a new Cabinet, as confirmed by government spokeswoman Kettia Marcellus to The Associated Press. The appointments come at a critical time for Haiti, which is grappling with widespread gang control over its capital, Port-au-Prince.

Carlos Hercules, serving as the attorney for Prime Minister Garry Conille, steps into the role of minister of justice and public security. Prime Minister Conille will also serve as interior minister, while Jean Marc Berthier Antoine has been named defense minister. This reshuffling of the Cabinet is part of broader efforts to stabilize the nation, which has seen significant violence and instability in recent months.

The country is preparing for the arrival of a UN-backed police force from Kenya, anticipated in the coming weeks, to combat gangs that have seized control of at least 80% of the capital. This deployment follows a period of intense violence that led to the resignation of former Prime Minister Ariel Henry in April after coordinated gang attacks destabilized his administration.

Dominique Dupuy, a former UNESCO ambassador and member of the transitional council, has been appointed as foreign affairs minister. Dupuy's appointment is notable given her resignation from the council amid political attacks and death threats. The new Cabinet also includes four women, highlighting a move towards inclusivity in a government structure that has been criticized for its lack of female representation.

Ketleen Florestal is taking on the role of minister of economy and finance at a time when Haiti faces deepening poverty and soaring inflation rates. Antoine Augustin has been appointed education minister, tasked with addressing the challenges facing Haiti's education system, including the closure of hundreds of schools due to gang violence.

The transitional council's work is far from over. It is charged with appointing a provisional electoral commission, a crucial step towards holding general elections. The council's mandate is set to expire on February 7, 2026, when a new president is expected to be sworn in.

This Cabinet reshuffle represents a pivotal moment for Haiti as it seeks to navigate through its current challenges towards a more stable and democratic future. The international community watches closely as Haiti undertakes these significant governance reforms amidst ongoing security concerns.