BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – CRIMINAL gangs in Haiti are reportedly planning renewed attempts to seize control of parts of the country, even as the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and international partners intensify efforts to stabilize the violence-plagued nation.
The regional bloc has voiced strong concern over reports that “a coalition of criminal gangs is threatening to seize power and compel a change in the governance arrangements in Haiti at this time.”
Since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, Haiti has descended into deepening political and economic turmoil, with gangs vying for control of key areas, including the capital, Port-au-Prince.
In a media statement, the Heads of Government of CARICOM condemned the reports, calling the situation “completely unacceptable” and expressing deep concern over the threat of further instability.
CARICOM has played a leading role in supporting Haiti since Moïse’s death, including coordinating with Kenyan forces currently engaged in peacekeeping operations on the ground.
“CARICOM strongly condemns any attempt to replace the transitional arrangements by force and violence. These arrangements were put in place by Haitian stakeholders to pave the way for free and fair elections by February 07, 2026, and to return Haiti to constitutional authority,” the statement read.
U.S. State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce confirmed in a brief statement that Secretary and Deputy Secretary of State had discussions with Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley—who also serves as Chair of CARICOM—affirming their support for the regional body's stance against any actions aimed at destabilizing Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council.
“The United States supports the efforts by the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support Mission and CARICOM to assist the government in its efforts to bring peace and stability to Haiti in the face of armed criminal gangs. The United States continues to consult with governments across the region,” Bruce said.
CARICOM further warned that any escalation in violence would worsen the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported in mid-January that more than 1,041,000 Haitians were internally displaced—many of whom are risking their lives to flee the country.
“Over the last month alone, close to 60,000 Haitians have been displaced. Increased violence will simply hurt those who are least capable of protecting themselves,”,” CARICOM said.
In response, the Community has intensified engagement with international partners to secure additional support for the Haitian people.
At CARICOM’s February Heads of Government meeting, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres pledged to push for Security Council resolutions aimed at boosting assistance to Haiti.
