Above picture is of the artists-led demonstration Oct. 13, 2019 - See article below
YOU CAN NOW DONATE ONLINE TO HHE: Click icon above. Our FishFry has been cancelled and other in person fundraisers. So please consider contributing for year #12 (2021-22) online! Single scholarship: $260. You can donate any amount toward a scholarship. Thank you!
To learn more about the violence in Haiti after Pres. Aristide was ousted by the USA, click on the link. Democracy Now! This was a violent period--2004/2008 with 8,000 murders and 35,000 rapes/assaults. Hurah, Inc. /Human Rights Accompaniment in Haiti/ was begun and worked during this period. This experience led to setting up the HHE program with the Hurah, Inc. partners.
INDEX TO UPDATE ARTICLES ON THE "LOCKDOWN" AND ONGOING PANDEMIC DISRUPTION: Sorry we can't link each article directly. You have to scroll down. At least we have them numbered! - Tom Luce, HHE Liaison hhecoordinator@gmail.com
30. Dec. 10 - Update on Catholic Bishops' Stand on Violence:Mediate, If...
INSECURITY - POLITICAL CRISIS - CEH (Episcopal Confernece of Haiti) POSITION
Posted on 2020-11-27 | The Nouvelliste
Tom Luce: "The Catholic Church is ready to mediate between political actors if they are sincere. The CEH denounces the worsening climate of insecurity, misery and unwholesome activity in the country. The Episcopal Conference of Haiti (CEH), during a press conference, Friday, November 27, 2020, gave its reading on the current situation of the country marked by growing insecurity, misery, the chronic crisis that our country is going through. While preaching a national understanding to find the right decision that can get the country out of this mess, senior leaders of the Catholic Church have not ruled out the possibility of playing the role of mediator for a way out of the crisis unless conditions are met. Prerequisites are defined. Among them are the sincerity of the actors and their sense of sacrifice for the nation."
"Do not let your hope be robbed", it is with these words of Pope Francis, that the Bishop of Hinche, Monsignor Désinord Jean, launched the reading of the message of the Episcopal Conference of Haiti (CEH) to the opportunity for the faithful and also for the leaders of this country. No less than nine bishops from the college including Cardinal Chibly Langlois gathered around a large table to deliver these words which invite us to keep hope even if the headwinds, in particular insecurity, the deterioration of living conditions. sway the boat which sails in the midst of a crisis of political and economic uncertainty.
"Today, our dear Haiti more than ever needs salvation, redemption, peace, in-depth transformation: transformation of mentalities, structures, the way of governing and of doing politics. Since July 2018, we have not stopped asking the protagonists of all sectors of national life to pull themselves together. During this year 2020, we also denounced the excesses of the executive which, through certain decrees, cause growing concern, ”declared the Catholic bishops of Haiti.
They also say they are deeply affected by "the worsening situation in the country which is sinking every day more into violence, poverty and insalubrity". Nowadays, continue the prelates, the population suffers the full brunt of the poisoning of social life by "a proliferation of acts of kidnapping, banditry, rape, assassinations and barbarism which sow terror, death and mourning ".
Like a cry from the heart in the middle of a sermon, the bishops growl: "We cry and repeat with all our might, with all the exasperated and exhausted Haitian people: no to chaos! No to violence ! No to insecurity! No to misery! We have had enough! The Haitian people are fed up! Enough is enough ! As for you who commit such acts as well as those who support you, we ask, in the name of the God of life: stop! Your actions are condemned by all the Haitian people, it will get you nowhere ”.
The CEH can be a mediator but ...
Recognizing - faced with the chronic crisis that the country is going through - the need for an “inter-Haitian national agreement to rebuild the nation”, the bishops gathered urged the search for the right “formula” to “weave” this agreement. This term of unity is meant to unite so much that it leaves the leaders of the Catholic Church in awe of the eventuality of making their contribution. However, the conditions will be much stricter than in 2014 when, at the instigation of Cardinal Chibly Langlois, then president of the Episcopal Conference of Haiti (CEH), political actors signed the "El Rancho" political agreement. No way it's going to be duped by the "hardliners" who screwed up that deal.
“The CEH can play a role in national initiatives that want to bring together the country's forces in order to reach a consensus to put the institutions back in place and restore the people's confidence, but under certain conditions. It is possible to find this consensus even if the actors often want to stay on a tight rope. Before committing ourselves to playing the role of mediator, we will be vigilant in ensuring the sincerity of the actors insofar as they do not want to use the institutions as a lift to achieve their ends. We have our criteria to judge their sincerity, otherwise we will not participate, "said Cardinal Langlois, who says he strongly hopes that there is a dialogue between the protagonists.
INSECURITY - POLITICAL CRISIS - CEH (Episcopal Confernece of Haiti) POSITION
Posted on 2020-11-27 | The Nouvelliste
Tom Luce: "The Catholic Church is ready to mediate between political actors if they are sincere. The CEH denounces the worsening climate of insecurity, misery and unwholesome activity in the country. The Episcopal Conference of Haiti (CEH), during a press conference, Friday, November 27, 2020, gave its reading on the current situation of the country marked by growing insecurity, misery, the chronic crisis that our country is going through. While preaching a national understanding to find the right decision that can get the country out of this mess, senior leaders of the Catholic Church have not ruled out the possibility of playing the role of mediator for a way out of the crisis unless conditions are met. Prerequisites are defined. Among them are the sincerity of the actors and their sense of sacrifice for the nation."
"Do not let your hope be robbed", it is with these words of Pope Francis, that the Bishop of Hinche, Monsignor Désinord Jean, launched the reading of the message of the Episcopal Conference of Haiti (CEH) to the opportunity for the faithful and also for the leaders of this country. No less than nine bishops from the college including Cardinal Chibly Langlois gathered around a large table to deliver these words which invite us to keep hope even if the headwinds, in particular insecurity, the deterioration of living conditions. sway the boat which sails in the midst of a crisis of political and economic uncertainty.
"Today, our dear Haiti more than ever needs salvation, redemption, peace, in-depth transformation: transformation of mentalities, structures, the way of governing and of doing politics. Since July 2018, we have not stopped asking the protagonists of all sectors of national life to pull themselves together. During this year 2020, we also denounced the excesses of the executive which, through certain decrees, cause growing concern, ”declared the Catholic bishops of Haiti.
They also say they are deeply affected by "the worsening situation in the country which is sinking every day more into violence, poverty and insalubrity". Nowadays, continue the prelates, the population suffers the full brunt of the poisoning of social life by "a proliferation of acts of kidnapping, banditry, rape, assassinations and barbarism which sow terror, death and mourning ".
Like a cry from the heart in the middle of a sermon, the bishops growl: "We cry and repeat with all our might, with all the exasperated and exhausted Haitian people: no to chaos! No to violence ! No to insecurity! No to misery! We have had enough! The Haitian people are fed up! Enough is enough ! As for you who commit such acts as well as those who support you, we ask, in the name of the God of life: stop! Your actions are condemned by all the Haitian people, it will get you nowhere ”.
The CEH can be a mediator but ...
Recognizing - faced with the chronic crisis that the country is going through - the need for an “inter-Haitian national agreement to rebuild the nation”, the bishops gathered urged the search for the right “formula” to “weave” this agreement. This term of unity is meant to unite so much that it leaves the leaders of the Catholic Church in awe of the eventuality of making their contribution. However, the conditions will be much stricter than in 2014 when, at the instigation of Cardinal Chibly Langlois, then president of the Episcopal Conference of Haiti (CEH), political actors signed the "El Rancho" political agreement. No way it's going to be duped by the "hardliners" who screwed up that deal.
“The CEH can play a role in national initiatives that want to bring together the country's forces in order to reach a consensus to put the institutions back in place and restore the people's confidence, but under certain conditions. It is possible to find this consensus even if the actors often want to stay on a tight rope. Before committing ourselves to playing the role of mediator, we will be vigilant in ensuring the sincerity of the actors insofar as they do not want to use the institutions as a lift to achieve their ends. We have our criteria to judge their sincerity, otherwise we will not participate, "said Cardinal Langlois, who says he strongly hopes that there is a dialogue between the protagonists.
29. Dec.2: No bad news from our partners, but violence has continued to disturb their area: Established Baptist center moves away! Our students have classes under these difficult circumstances with cancellations and staying at home regularly. Doctors are striking to protest the violence (kidnappings) against healthcare workers. Here is a shocking story about a Baptist establishment in Martissant that has totally closed due to the violence. Our Principal, Haïle Noël, St. Mary Magdalene says that it is this bad, but he and St. Bernadette are definitely working to stay open.
After 78 years, the UEBH mission abandons Bolosse a neighborhood controlled by gangs
11/24/20 Le Nouvelliste Robenson Geffrard
Surrounded by five armed gangs who clash regularly, the mission of the Evangelical Baptist Union of Haiti (UEBH) is forced to abandon its mystical headquarters located in the heights of Martissant. After more than 78 years in this area totally controlled by armed groups, the STEP and the Evangelical College Maranatha are packing up….
Located in one of the few green spaces in Port-au-Prince, the premises of the Baptist Evangelical Union of Haiti (UEBH) in the Bolosse area are currently controlled by armed gangs. "Faced with the evolution of the situation in the area especially in recent days, the UEBH is obliged to stop all its activities on the Bolosse campus", announced Tuesday at a press conference, with bitterness, Dr Jacques Louis, president of UEBH.
"The Theological Seminary of Port-au-Prince (STEP) has been operating in Bolosse since 1942, we are 78 years old in the area," said the president of the Baptist Evangelical Union of Haiti (UEBH). According to Pastor Jacques Louis, the inhabitants have deserted the area. Like the UEBH, a Catholic school that served the population also had to abandon the Bolosse district, regretted Pastor Louis.
The pastor pointed out that the main access leading to the Bolosse campus is blocked with concrete blocks at the Route des Dalles and Fort-Mercredi. "There is so much that we do not control or understand, we are forced to stop our operations until the situation clears up," he lamented.
“Our social actions in the area such as the mobile clinic, literacy, credit, construction and repair of housing in the community are also at a standstill. The situation that develops does not promote the transformation of life, but it destroys lives, ”said Dr Jacques Louis.
Pastor Jacques Louis sharply denounced the fact that armed individuals carry out their activities in the space of the Maranatha College.
Established in Bolosse since 1956, the Evangelical College Maranatha has changed address due to the insecurity in this area. “We are surrounded by five armed gangs who clash regularly, namely Fort-Mercredi, Grand-Ravine, Ti-Bois, Baz Pilate and the Bicentenary. We have been in trouble since March. When these armed groups launch hostilities, the college is not spared from the projectiles, ”said engineer Armand Louis, director of the Evangelical College Maranatha.
The Bolosse area is handed over to bandits, which makes life impossible in this part of Port-au-Prince, said engineer Armand Louis.
The Evangelical College Maranatha is currently operating at two addresses at rue Casséus in Pacot and Turgeau, Armand Louis reported.
The leaders of the mission of the Evangelical Baptist Union of Haiti (UEBH), who hope for a return to normal in the Bolosse area, have indicated that a complaint will be filed against the armed individuals who occupy the Bolosse campus . They appealed for help to the country's authorities to regain control of the said premises.
It should be noted that for years the authorities have practically abandoned all the bordering areas in the heights of Martissant. Fort-Mercredi, Grand-Ravine, Ti-Bois and Pilate are controlled by armed groups.
#28 Oct. 7, 2020 Year #11! Tough News About Violence
Let's not forget why we are doing this scholarship program!
The slaves in Haiti were the first to free themselves, set up a free republic, and outlaw slavery! And they have been paying for this ever since. France made them pay back the lost land and slaves to the tune of $22billion dollars and the United States backed France up. The US invaded and took control from 1915-1934 taking full control including election of presidents and making changes like allowing non-Haitians to own property leading to a huge loss in property by Haitians. They have been kept under control by external forces making them the poorest nation in the West Hemisphere. But they have continued to push ahead for justice. Our students are getting their education, keeping them off the streets and giving them a future on which to build a better life and a better country.
As Frederick Douglass said, "Until she spoke, no Christian nation had abolished slavery."
After 78 years, the UEBH mission abandons Bolosse a neighborhood controlled by gangs
11/24/20 Le Nouvelliste Robenson Geffrard
Surrounded by five armed gangs who clash regularly, the mission of the Evangelical Baptist Union of Haiti (UEBH) is forced to abandon its mystical headquarters located in the heights of Martissant. After more than 78 years in this area totally controlled by armed groups, the STEP and the Evangelical College Maranatha are packing up….
Located in one of the few green spaces in Port-au-Prince, the premises of the Baptist Evangelical Union of Haiti (UEBH) in the Bolosse area are currently controlled by armed gangs. "Faced with the evolution of the situation in the area especially in recent days, the UEBH is obliged to stop all its activities on the Bolosse campus", announced Tuesday at a press conference, with bitterness, Dr Jacques Louis, president of UEBH.
"The Theological Seminary of Port-au-Prince (STEP) has been operating in Bolosse since 1942, we are 78 years old in the area," said the president of the Baptist Evangelical Union of Haiti (UEBH). According to Pastor Jacques Louis, the inhabitants have deserted the area. Like the UEBH, a Catholic school that served the population also had to abandon the Bolosse district, regretted Pastor Louis.
The pastor pointed out that the main access leading to the Bolosse campus is blocked with concrete blocks at the Route des Dalles and Fort-Mercredi. "There is so much that we do not control or understand, we are forced to stop our operations until the situation clears up," he lamented.
“Our social actions in the area such as the mobile clinic, literacy, credit, construction and repair of housing in the community are also at a standstill. The situation that develops does not promote the transformation of life, but it destroys lives, ”said Dr Jacques Louis.
Pastor Jacques Louis sharply denounced the fact that armed individuals carry out their activities in the space of the Maranatha College.
Established in Bolosse since 1956, the Evangelical College Maranatha has changed address due to the insecurity in this area. “We are surrounded by five armed gangs who clash regularly, namely Fort-Mercredi, Grand-Ravine, Ti-Bois, Baz Pilate and the Bicentenary. We have been in trouble since March. When these armed groups launch hostilities, the college is not spared from the projectiles, ”said engineer Armand Louis, director of the Evangelical College Maranatha.
The Bolosse area is handed over to bandits, which makes life impossible in this part of Port-au-Prince, said engineer Armand Louis.
The Evangelical College Maranatha is currently operating at two addresses at rue Casséus in Pacot and Turgeau, Armand Louis reported.
The leaders of the mission of the Evangelical Baptist Union of Haiti (UEBH), who hope for a return to normal in the Bolosse area, have indicated that a complaint will be filed against the armed individuals who occupy the Bolosse campus . They appealed for help to the country's authorities to regain control of the said premises.
It should be noted that for years the authorities have practically abandoned all the bordering areas in the heights of Martissant. Fort-Mercredi, Grand-Ravine, Ti-Bois and Pilate are controlled by armed groups.
#28 Oct. 7, 2020 Year #11! Tough News About Violence
Let's not forget why we are doing this scholarship program!
The slaves in Haiti were the first to free themselves, set up a free republic, and outlaw slavery! And they have been paying for this ever since. France made them pay back the lost land and slaves to the tune of $22billion dollars and the United States backed France up. The US invaded and took control from 1915-1934 taking full control including election of presidents and making changes like allowing non-Haitians to own property leading to a huge loss in property by Haitians. They have been kept under control by external forces making them the poorest nation in the West Hemisphere. But they have continued to push ahead for justice. Our students are getting their education, keeping them off the streets and giving them a future on which to build a better life and a better country.
As Frederick Douglass said, "Until she spoke, no Christian nation had abolished slavery."
NEWS FROM HAITI - QUIXOTE CENTER: GANGS...
9/25/20 TOM RICKERS
The notorious paramilitaries of the past, the Tonton Macoute and FRAPH may be gone today, but the people of Haiti are once again under the threat of the presence of armed groups acting with impunity. The use of armed gangs by political actors in Haiti (and many other places, including the U.S.) to “keep order” is hardly a new phenomenon. However, over the last several years, as protests against the PHTK government have grown, these gangs have been mobilized in what seems a coordinated fashion. They are heavily armed, and have engaged in multiple attacks on communities.
At the moment, the spotlight is on former police officer Jimmy “Barbecue” Cherizier, who now fronts a gang confederation (the G9) that rules the Port-au-Prince neighborhoods of Delmas and Bel Aire. As a police officer, Cherizier was implicated in massacres at Grand Ravine and La Saline.
At Grand Ravine, in November of 2017, police attacked community members inside a school – killing 9 people. Some were killed execution style, and several appeared to have been shot in their homes nearby and then dragged to the school. The operation was supposedly launched by police in response to gang activity, but was clearly more complicated than that. UN units were present but did not intervene. The massacre was largely ignored outside of Haiti. In U.S. media, only Jake Johnston of Center for Economic and Policy Research covered the story in detail – in a piece published in the Intercept in January of 2018. Johnston interviewed, Rovelsond Apollon, an observer with a local human rights organization working in Grand Ravine, who discussed the connection between the police, politicians and local gangs:
It’s not just that politicians exert control over the police, Apollon said — they are involved with the gangs themselves. His organization has interviewed young people with heavy weaponry that is not easy to acquire, he explained, and they said the weapons had been provided by politicians. “Politicians and authorities are not innocent in what happened, because they, too, play their part in the violence,” he said. The politicians, for their part, have not publicly addressed these accusations.
A year later, the neighborhood of La Saline became the sight of another massacre. As in Grand Ravine, initial reports made the attack seem like an internecine battle between gangs trying to control the area. But further investigation laid out the role of the police who coordinated with gangs, allegedly operating with the support of Moise allies. It is now argued that the motivation for the attack on the community was at least in part retaliation for its mobilization in protests against the current government. According to a report on the attack following a Haiti Action Committee and National Lawyers Guild delegation, Cherizier publicly admitted taking part in the attack, with his police units blocking roads to keep people from leaving the community. The total number of people killed is not known. Many bodies were burned, some left in the street where remains were eaten by pigs and dogs. The Réseau National de Défense des Droits Humains (RNNHD) was able to identify at least 71 people murdered based on interviews with community members.
Cherizier was forced out of the police in December of 2018. However, rather than end up in jail, Cherizier has re-emerged at the head of the G9, a confederation assembled with the support of the current government. Journalist Etant Dupain wrote last week:
During an explosive radio interview on Radio Magik9, earlier this month, one of the most influential members of President Jovenel Moise’s commission for disarmament (known as the CNDDR), Jean Rebel Dorcénat, stated that it was his idea for several gang leaders to join together to form a federation, which has now become the gang named G9. He later walked back the statement, and clarified to say that he was not responsible for creating the G9, but he did, however, advise gang leaders to form an alliance in order to make the disarmament commission’s job easier.
When the alliance was announced, armed groups rallied in Port-au-Prince. The police were nowhere to be found – but their equipment was on display. The Washington Post reported, “When Cherizier’s men took to the streets in June, witnesses claimed to have seen them ride in the same armored vehicles used by the national police and special security forces. Justice Minister Lucmane Delile denounced the gangs and ordered the national police to pursue them; within hours, Moïse fired him.”
Dupain’s article was written in the context of the G9 engaging in massive attacks against the community in Bel Air over the last two weeks. These attacks have displaced thousands of people, many of whom are now living in a soccer field in Solino. Cherizier is not hiding – indeed, he regularly appears in the streets, and moves freely despite an active arrest warrant.
Meanwhile, members of the national police have violently protested the arrest of police captain Pascal Alexandre, driving through Port-au-Prince setting cars afire, and even torching the office that archives voter registrations. This so-called Fantom 509 force has become a frightening presence in the capital, and remains unchallenged by Moise and his allies.
For his part, Moise has responded to the moment by trying to consolidate his position. Ruling by decree since January – there are only 11 elected officials serving in office in Haiti right now – he has pressed forward with an electoral commission and set of constitutional reforms that would strengthen the presidency. The electoral commission is devoid of the usual representatives of civil society, and has been denounced by the opposition. Three weeks ago, the head of Haiti’s Port-au-Prince bar association, Monferrier Dorval, was assassinated in front of his home just hours after giving a radio interview in which he expressed doubts about constitutional reforms being proposed by the government.
Into this setting the U.S. State Department has entered with the kind of patronizing rhetoric and threats we have come to expect. A State Department official stated “Frankly, I have to say I’m a little bit tired of every group, every opposition party in Haiti saying, ‘Well, I won’t appoint my person,’ or ‘We won’t have an election,’ or ‘We won’t run in this until you meet all of my political demands…That’s not democracy. And so we are quite insistent on this, and it’s going to start to have consequences for those who stand in the way of it.” So, the U.S. government’s position is that the opposition must allow the PHTK and Moise to consolidate its power, “or else.” The U.S. government, it is worth noting, is the chief bankroll behind Haiti’s national police:
Earlier this month, the State Department notified Congress that it was reallocating $8 million from last year’s budget to support the HNP. Since Trump took office, the US has nearly quadrupled its support to Haiti’s police — from $2.8 million in 2016 to more than $12.4 million last year. With the recent reallocation, the figure this year will likely be even higher. US funding for the Haitian police constitutes more than 10 percent of the institution’s overall budget.
So, as thousands come to the street with vision, with hope, and, for some, in desperation, demanding a revolution of political and economic forces, they face not just the local bourgeoisie and their armed defenders, but the U.S. government, with it’s bankroll, weapons and saccharine imperial pronouncements about good government. Pierre Esperance of the RNNDH told Etant Dupain, “The worst part is that the international community continues to support a government that is in bed with gangs and is responsible for nine massacres in the country. I have not seen anything like it since the departure of Jean Claude Duvalier.”
Finally, responding to the State Department, Bob Maguire said, “This thing about ‘It’s going to have consequences for those who stand in the way,’ well, it already has consequences….They are getting shot. They are getting beat up and they’ve been demonstrating in the streets for years about the lack of any kind of responsible democracy in the country. These are people who are already suffering the consequences of Haiti’s failure.” This failure is bought and paid for by the U.S. government.
9/25/20 TOM RICKERS
The notorious paramilitaries of the past, the Tonton Macoute and FRAPH may be gone today, but the people of Haiti are once again under the threat of the presence of armed groups acting with impunity. The use of armed gangs by political actors in Haiti (and many other places, including the U.S.) to “keep order” is hardly a new phenomenon. However, over the last several years, as protests against the PHTK government have grown, these gangs have been mobilized in what seems a coordinated fashion. They are heavily armed, and have engaged in multiple attacks on communities.
At the moment, the spotlight is on former police officer Jimmy “Barbecue” Cherizier, who now fronts a gang confederation (the G9) that rules the Port-au-Prince neighborhoods of Delmas and Bel Aire. As a police officer, Cherizier was implicated in massacres at Grand Ravine and La Saline.
At Grand Ravine, in November of 2017, police attacked community members inside a school – killing 9 people. Some were killed execution style, and several appeared to have been shot in their homes nearby and then dragged to the school. The operation was supposedly launched by police in response to gang activity, but was clearly more complicated than that. UN units were present but did not intervene. The massacre was largely ignored outside of Haiti. In U.S. media, only Jake Johnston of Center for Economic and Policy Research covered the story in detail – in a piece published in the Intercept in January of 2018. Johnston interviewed, Rovelsond Apollon, an observer with a local human rights organization working in Grand Ravine, who discussed the connection between the police, politicians and local gangs:
It’s not just that politicians exert control over the police, Apollon said — they are involved with the gangs themselves. His organization has interviewed young people with heavy weaponry that is not easy to acquire, he explained, and they said the weapons had been provided by politicians. “Politicians and authorities are not innocent in what happened, because they, too, play their part in the violence,” he said. The politicians, for their part, have not publicly addressed these accusations.
A year later, the neighborhood of La Saline became the sight of another massacre. As in Grand Ravine, initial reports made the attack seem like an internecine battle between gangs trying to control the area. But further investigation laid out the role of the police who coordinated with gangs, allegedly operating with the support of Moise allies. It is now argued that the motivation for the attack on the community was at least in part retaliation for its mobilization in protests against the current government. According to a report on the attack following a Haiti Action Committee and National Lawyers Guild delegation, Cherizier publicly admitted taking part in the attack, with his police units blocking roads to keep people from leaving the community. The total number of people killed is not known. Many bodies were burned, some left in the street where remains were eaten by pigs and dogs. The Réseau National de Défense des Droits Humains (RNNHD) was able to identify at least 71 people murdered based on interviews with community members.
Cherizier was forced out of the police in December of 2018. However, rather than end up in jail, Cherizier has re-emerged at the head of the G9, a confederation assembled with the support of the current government. Journalist Etant Dupain wrote last week:
During an explosive radio interview on Radio Magik9, earlier this month, one of the most influential members of President Jovenel Moise’s commission for disarmament (known as the CNDDR), Jean Rebel Dorcénat, stated that it was his idea for several gang leaders to join together to form a federation, which has now become the gang named G9. He later walked back the statement, and clarified to say that he was not responsible for creating the G9, but he did, however, advise gang leaders to form an alliance in order to make the disarmament commission’s job easier.
When the alliance was announced, armed groups rallied in Port-au-Prince. The police were nowhere to be found – but their equipment was on display. The Washington Post reported, “When Cherizier’s men took to the streets in June, witnesses claimed to have seen them ride in the same armored vehicles used by the national police and special security forces. Justice Minister Lucmane Delile denounced the gangs and ordered the national police to pursue them; within hours, Moïse fired him.”
Dupain’s article was written in the context of the G9 engaging in massive attacks against the community in Bel Air over the last two weeks. These attacks have displaced thousands of people, many of whom are now living in a soccer field in Solino. Cherizier is not hiding – indeed, he regularly appears in the streets, and moves freely despite an active arrest warrant.
Meanwhile, members of the national police have violently protested the arrest of police captain Pascal Alexandre, driving through Port-au-Prince setting cars afire, and even torching the office that archives voter registrations. This so-called Fantom 509 force has become a frightening presence in the capital, and remains unchallenged by Moise and his allies.
For his part, Moise has responded to the moment by trying to consolidate his position. Ruling by decree since January – there are only 11 elected officials serving in office in Haiti right now – he has pressed forward with an electoral commission and set of constitutional reforms that would strengthen the presidency. The electoral commission is devoid of the usual representatives of civil society, and has been denounced by the opposition. Three weeks ago, the head of Haiti’s Port-au-Prince bar association, Monferrier Dorval, was assassinated in front of his home just hours after giving a radio interview in which he expressed doubts about constitutional reforms being proposed by the government.
Into this setting the U.S. State Department has entered with the kind of patronizing rhetoric and threats we have come to expect. A State Department official stated “Frankly, I have to say I’m a little bit tired of every group, every opposition party in Haiti saying, ‘Well, I won’t appoint my person,’ or ‘We won’t have an election,’ or ‘We won’t run in this until you meet all of my political demands…That’s not democracy. And so we are quite insistent on this, and it’s going to start to have consequences for those who stand in the way of it.” So, the U.S. government’s position is that the opposition must allow the PHTK and Moise to consolidate its power, “or else.” The U.S. government, it is worth noting, is the chief bankroll behind Haiti’s national police:
Earlier this month, the State Department notified Congress that it was reallocating $8 million from last year’s budget to support the HNP. Since Trump took office, the US has nearly quadrupled its support to Haiti’s police — from $2.8 million in 2016 to more than $12.4 million last year. With the recent reallocation, the figure this year will likely be even higher. US funding for the Haitian police constitutes more than 10 percent of the institution’s overall budget.
So, as thousands come to the street with vision, with hope, and, for some, in desperation, demanding a revolution of political and economic forces, they face not just the local bourgeoisie and their armed defenders, but the U.S. government, with it’s bankroll, weapons and saccharine imperial pronouncements about good government. Pierre Esperance of the RNNDH told Etant Dupain, “The worst part is that the international community continues to support a government that is in bed with gangs and is responsible for nine massacres in the country. I have not seen anything like it since the departure of Jean Claude Duvalier.”
Finally, responding to the State Department, Bob Maguire said, “This thing about ‘It’s going to have consequences for those who stand in the way,’ well, it already has consequences….They are getting shot. They are getting beat up and they’ve been demonstrating in the streets for years about the lack of any kind of responsible democracy in the country. These are people who are already suffering the consequences of Haiti’s failure.” This failure is bought and paid for by the U.S. government.
#27 Unrest, School Plans/Reports - Aug. 13, 2020
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St. Bernadette Kindergarten 18 students originally 10 then 8 brought in when school didn't open till January. Rather than let these stay on the street. Now all 18 will continue to year #11 2020-2021
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St. Mary Magdalene 50 K-5 then 50 more brought in when school didn't start till January. Year #11 will start with the original 50 in October.
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Dear HHE Supporters,
As was the case in my last report, things are relatively good, no deaths either by C-19 or by gang violence. Since July 20 Haiti has been off a state of emergency. But don't get me wrong. Haiti before C-19 was in deplorable shape: lack of healthcare, food, water, electricity, gasoline.... a very bad situation. Note: Pictures and information come thanks to our liaison, Gentilhomme Jean-Gilles.
Last year the 2010 earthquake, 2015 hurricane damage was made worse by a year of "Lockdown", total closure of main roads, thousands protesting to demand that President Moïse resign. This year the gangs have super organized and control whole sections of Port-Au-Prince including our two, Grand Ravine and Martissant. The collusion with the gangs by the government has made things more complicated.
The Haitian police have basically given up for lack of pay, supplies, transport, protection. C-19 has 7,781 confirmed cases and 192 deaths nationwide. Much better than the Dominican Republic. Still, though, Fr. Laguerre, our pastor, has to spend a good part of his time in the peace-making efforts to keep the gang violence down. St. Bernadette parish and the Martissant area are heavily controlled by gangs, but no deaths, kidnapping.
So let's get to education. Officially, August 10 was declared the beginning of school nationwide. Not many parents felt comfortable sending their children to school, not having masks, not having sufficient protection/disinfection capabilities. The teachers unions have been protesting to gather more support. Our schools started this week, Aug. 10. The plan is to finish up what can be recovered from last year (#10) by working through September. Then begin year #11 in October.
At St. Bernadette our kindergarten students were able to be given their first semester report!
As was the case in my last report, things are relatively good, no deaths either by C-19 or by gang violence. Since July 20 Haiti has been off a state of emergency. But don't get me wrong. Haiti before C-19 was in deplorable shape: lack of healthcare, food, water, electricity, gasoline.... a very bad situation. Note: Pictures and information come thanks to our liaison, Gentilhomme Jean-Gilles.
Last year the 2010 earthquake, 2015 hurricane damage was made worse by a year of "Lockdown", total closure of main roads, thousands protesting to demand that President Moïse resign. This year the gangs have super organized and control whole sections of Port-Au-Prince including our two, Grand Ravine and Martissant. The collusion with the gangs by the government has made things more complicated.
The Haitian police have basically given up for lack of pay, supplies, transport, protection. C-19 has 7,781 confirmed cases and 192 deaths nationwide. Much better than the Dominican Republic. Still, though, Fr. Laguerre, our pastor, has to spend a good part of his time in the peace-making efforts to keep the gang violence down. St. Bernadette parish and the Martissant area are heavily controlled by gangs, but no deaths, kidnapping.
So let's get to education. Officially, August 10 was declared the beginning of school nationwide. Not many parents felt comfortable sending their children to school, not having masks, not having sufficient protection/disinfection capabilities. The teachers unions have been protesting to gather more support. Our schools started this week, Aug. 10. The plan is to finish up what can be recovered from last year (#10) by working through September. Then begin year #11 in October.
At St. Bernadette our kindergarten students were able to be given their first semester report!
"The Little Soubirous Kindergarten" - Route National No. 2, Martissant - Trimester Report - A Christian Education For A New Society. Above is the report for Cadet, Bensley. Note: St. Bernadette Soubirous is best known as the saint who received visions from the Virgin Mary in a cave near Lourdes. Pope Pius XI canonized her in 1933. She is the patronness of the ill, poor, sheep tenders and those ridiculed for their piety. Feast day- Feb. 18.  Mr. Haïle Noël, Principal, has been working and planning with staff, and also has met with parents to get school started.
St. Mary Magdalene, already with 50 students in year #10, took in 50 extra students in January because no teaching was done in trimester 1. They will finish up year #10 through October and the original 50 will begin year #11. We now have Trimester #1 reports for the original 50 students certifying that they all earned "Passed" with an average of 6 out of 10 points.
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Cadet, Bensley (family name first, first name last)
I am a retired teacher who had minimal time with kindergartners, but I have never seen this kind of report covering development: of movements, big and skilled arts, French/Creole!, hearing, visual, social/emotional, intellectual, attention/concentration, logical reasoning, spatial/time orientation, recognition of body sides, art/singing/drawing, reading, writing, arithmetic!!! Call me if you wish to see. The closing commentary for Bensley: "He is always calm, smiling and participates often in activities. He likes his friends very much."
Parents meeting with Mr. Noël, assessing the problems with protection for children. There have been many different plans around Haiti, meeting outdoors, small groups rotating. Our schools will have social distancing and hopefully masks.
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In closing- inflation is over 23%. As one parent says, "“If you are not able to find even basic things like food and good water to drink, how could you pay for internet service?” Many Haitians do have WhatsApp. But that has severe limitations regarding virtual classes.
Politically it seems as though the protests will resume to call for Pres. Moïse to resign. His term is disputed but the opposition parties say it should end Feb. 2021. Then a provisional government is expected to organize and hold elections. Critics warn that US involvement in Haïti could intervene on behalf of Pres Moïse who has allowed elections to stop and governs by decree.
Politically it seems as though the protests will resume to call for Pres. Moïse to resign. His term is disputed but the opposition parties say it should end Feb. 2021. Then a provisional government is expected to organize and hold elections. Critics warn that US involvement in Haïti could intervene on behalf of Pres Moïse who has allowed elections to stop and governs by decree.
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#26 Relatively O.K. News July 11, 2020
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St. Mary Magadalene 50 Students
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St. Bernadette 10 Students
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Gang members marching in Martissant with guns demanding to be allowed to work in neighborhoods.
July 10, 2010
Dear HHE Supporters
Overall the news is relatively good, regarding the C-19 and violence in our communities.
- None of our people has had a C-19 infection or death,
- neither has anyone suffered any violence from the gang warfare rampant in Port-Au-Prince and in our neighborhoods. Reports from our partners in Grand Ravine (St. Mary Magdalene) and in Martissant (St. Bernadette) are consistent with no negative stories.
- Regarding C-19, Haiti is doing much better than its neighbor, today, The Dominican Republic-DR. As of 7/10/20, DR:Cases=40,790, Deaths=842; Haiti: Cases=6,486, Deaths=123.
- BUT, overall the situation is severely disturbed. Some 500,000 Haitians work in the DR and it is expected that Haiti will see more cases. Reporting is probably inaccurate for Haiti.
GANGS DEMAND NEIGHBORHOOD TAKEOVER
The other tough challenge is the development of gang control of neighborhoods, allegedly in collaboration with government agents. There is a group of gangs with the title "G-9 And Allies" that have carried out demonstrations as shown in this photo but the allegations of their being collaborated with by the government are loud and many. See the Lasaline Story in the Miami Herald clearly a whole village attacked for its protests against the government.
Our two neighborhoods, Grand Ravine (St. Mary Magdalene) and Martissant (St. Bernadette) have been suffering openly with gang attacks and have seen demonstrations like this just this past week according to our partners. (See photo with guns at left from Gentilhomme.) The National Network of Human Rights Defense-RNDDH, long a fighter for the Haitians suffering from attacks by the government and extreme groups, has published a condemnation of the government on July 9 for their complacency in dealing with the gangs or "bandits". They also have condemned the abusive treatment of peaceful demonstrators on June 29. This is published on RNDDH and if you would like a translation, I'll get busy on that for you.
ONE LAST NOT ON VIOLENCE: for the last two years the whole country has been calling for the resignation of President Jovenel Moïse for much wrongdoing including siphoning off billions of Petrocaribe money from the sale of oil from Venezuela. He also failed to have any elections so that the legislature is no longer functional and he governs by decree. The protests against him have been peaceful. But the Lasaline story is one of the cases really proven.
Wow! And, the president has published the updated Penal Code for Haiti and has set off a national outcry. The new Penal Code eliminates as crimes, homosexuality, abortion, and same-sex marriage. The religious communities have raised the roof. The government will be holding sessions with the opponents to deal with the changes. Too bad they haven't outlawed gang-government collaboration!
SCHOOL! Our partners are under the same conditions keeping schools closed. They are making plans nevertheless to work out educating their students in some manner. They obviously don't have the online capacity that we do here. With the C-19 out there and getting worse attending classes is quite a dangerous undertaking. And with the gang control of neighborhoods, safety is a serious problem. In the past we have known about gangs extorting specific groups--including schools--by charging money for protection. Children and teachers/administrators can be approached on the street and forced to render payments for protection under threat of violence. Our schools have not submitted to this extortion. The planning for school is, nonetheless being seriously done with hopes for having some type of classroom activity asap, hopefully when the C-19 crisis subsides. But WHEN that might be is an unknown. We have been ready to pay the regular fee for the first half of year #11 and will try to do our part in getting instruction underway. Our plan is to continue supporting the 50 students at St. Mary Magdalene and the 18 students at St. Bernadette. Late notice: here is the plan/hope 1)begin in last week of August and finish in September for year #10, then year #11 starts in October.
FUNDRAISING: given our ongoing fundraising last year we did obtain substantial funding for this coming year #11. However, with the cancellation of our current fundraiser in the spring--"FishFry"--and no upcoming "White Party" we stand to get behind of our regular income that will build for next year. Of course the pandemic will affect us here, but it will be much worse in Haiti. So the idea of promoting donations online is what we have available now for finishing up for year #11 (2020-2021) and hopefully moving on to year #12 (2021-2022). The ability of education restarting in the coming year is such an important goal that we want to share with our Haitian partners. Note: because of the schools being closed all fall due to the violence and demonstrations and then again in the spring because of the pandemic, our schools weren't open very long. But in the spring, because of no fall classes, our partners invited new students to come to school adding 50 to St. Mary Magdalene = 100, and 8 to St. Bernadette= 18. This coming year we are only planning on our original 50 scholarships at St. Mary Magdalene. Our donor at St. Bernadette has generously taken on the 8 new students.
Best wishes to you and all yours in these crisis times!
Sincerely,
Tom Luce
Gentilhomme took this photo this week Wednesday showing at least a peaceable front yard of St. Bernadette. There are still no open services. But meetings are being held with the school personnel. We don't have any photos from St. Mary Magdalene due to the risk of violence there. Hopefully we'll get the plans when they become attainable. We send our partners the best wishes for their health and their peace!
#25 May 10 Happy Mothers' Day- Good/Bad News
HOPE FOR HAITI:EDUCATION-HHE 50-St. Mary Magdalene Classical Center Scholarships, Gran Ravin
10-St. Bernadette, Parish School, Martissant, Port-Au-Prince, Haiti "Until She Spoke, No Christian nation had abolished slavery." Frederick Douglass, in Tribute to the Haitian Slave Revolt
<haitischolarships.weebly.com><http://www.stcolumba-oak.com>
Tom Luce, Liaison, <hhecoordinator@gmail.com> 510-575-6326
Dear Supporters of HHE:
First the good news: regarding our school communities, there are no reported deaths or even illness from C-19 and no reports of violent attacks in our gang controlled neighborhoods. As of now the situation of the C-19 in Haiti is still low, compared to the neighboring country, The Dominican Republic, where 373 have died and 9,095 have tested positively (as well as 3,064 cured). Haiti's situation has not yet deteriorated as has been envisioned by the experts who have pointed out that so many of Haiti's city crowded neighborhoods cannot self isolate and that the health care system was very inadequate before the pandemic. My news is from the last several days in various newspapers. I have been in regular contact with our Haiti Liaison, Gentilhomme Jean-Gilles as well as Principal Haïle Noël, of St. Mary Magdalene Classical Center. Gentilhomme has also been able to communicate with Fr. Pierre Andre Laguerre, Pastor and Principal of St. Bernadette parish and school. Of course, due to C-19, all schools and church activities are suspended and physical distancing is the rule.
The bad news is that violent, gang-ridden (and reportedly with some government support) has taken over our two neighborhoods -- Grand Ravine and Martissant -- along with areas close to them and nationally crime has risen including kidnappings. In Grand Ravine/Martissant last week there were (At the end of this email I'm printing in English a letter from the Catholic Bishops Commission for Justice and Peace "CE-JILAP" about this grave problem that the government must address.) 22 people were murdered violently in the last week in our neighborhoods including fires of homes set. Pastor LaGuerre has in the past years and this year been involved with the "CE-JILAP" work in St. Bernadette parish even as they have had victims of violence. The parish has been able to start the course on "Yes To Life, Yes To The Future, We Youth Are Stopping Violence". The C-19 pandemic is picking up numbers and more are expected while people are not practicing the physical-distancing rules.
As we have announced earlier, our spring fundraiser, FishFry/Karaoke, was canceled. We are hoping that people wanting to support our coming year #11 (Sept.-June 2020-21) and hopefully #12 will go to our website at St. Columba and click on the "donate" button. <https://stcolumba-oak.com/hope-for-haiti-donations>
With love and care during this crisis of C-19,
Tom Luce
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"Human Rights Organization Concerned about the situation in Bicentennial and Martissant"
Le Nouvelliste, 5/10/20 <https://lenouvelliste.com/journal/lenouvelliste/2020-05-09/1495>
The National Episcopal Justice and Peace Commission (CE-JILAP) is very worried about the resurgence of violence that is raging in downtown Port-au-Prince - Bicentennial, Martissant, Avenues Bolosse and Village-de-Dieu. "These areas are controlled by criminals, highway robbers and also henchmen of certain elected officials ...", underlined the Office for the protection of the citizen in a report published this week.
"The inhabitants living in these areas are practically unable to stay at home because of clashes between armed groups", deplored the director of CE-JILAP, Jocelyne Colas Noël, who speaks of several families who ended up in the street with nothing and do not know which saint to turn to after the bandits have burnt down their houses.
During a bloody weekend (April 17 to 19), armed groups in Grand-Ravine, reacting to an attack by "Baz Pilat", set fire to several houses on 4th avenue Bolosse. At least two people were killed while the previous weekend, twenty others were cowardly murdered.
The committee is shocked by the images of the horrific and scandalous scenes circulating on social networks showing members of one of the armed gangs in the south of the capital exhibiting parts of the body of one of their victims after having killed her and beheaded.
Faced with this cruelty like no other, this human rights organization puts the State at fault, making it responsible for this unfortunate situation. "The escalation of violence in Haiti, particularly in the working-class neighborhoods south of Port-au-Prince, is the result of bad political decisions made by Haitian governments, especially that of Moïse-Jouthe", criticized the EC- JILAP.
"Justice must be punished against any natural or legal person who continues to fuel the climate of violence and crime in the country, by continuing to supply arms and ammunition to the armed gangs," recommended the commission, which asked the State to stop making false promises, uttering threats, disturbing and disturbing inflammatory statements that do more harm than good.
The Minister of Justice and Public Security, Me Lucmane Délile, had granted 72 hours to the “good” people of Village-de-Dieu to leave the area. Two weeks later, this ultimatum remains without effect.
The OPC, after describing the Minister of Justice's warning as an inhuman ultimatum, recommended that Ms. Délile, through the Haitian National Police, consider concrete measures related to general principles of human rights aimed at the dismantling of all armed gangs without regard to political considerations.
The "Protector of the People" (a government position), Atty. Renan Hédouville, recommends that Prime Minister Joseph Jouthe rule on the situation unfolding in Village-de-Dieu and announce the accompanying measures that are adopted or likely to be adopted in favor families who have abandoned the village and those who are still there. (Note by Tom Luce: Mr. Hédouville was named by the current government of Haïti and was denounced by the National Human Rights Committee in Haiti, Pierre Espérance, Director, as an ally of the governments going back to former President Martelly and cannot be expected to “protect” the people. Le Nouvelliste, 10/27/17 <https://lenouvelliste.com/article/178336/renan-hedouville-le-nouveau-protecteur-du-citoyen-et-de-la-citoyenne>)
As early as this Friday, weapons were still heard in the area of Portail Léogane and Martissant. The bandits of Grand-Ravine and Village-de-Dieu were still at work.
========================
HOPE FOR HAITI:EDUCATION-HHE 50-St. Mary Magdalene Classical Center Scholarships, Gran Ravin
10-St. Bernadette, Parish School, Martissant, Port-Au-Prince, Haiti "Until She Spoke, No Christian nation had abolished slavery." Frederick Douglass, in Tribute to the Haitian Slave Revolt
<haitischolarships.weebly.com><http://www.stcolumba-oak.com>
Tom Luce, Liaison, <hhecoordinator@gmail.com> 510-575-6326
Dear Supporters of HHE:
First the good news: regarding our school communities, there are no reported deaths or even illness from C-19 and no reports of violent attacks in our gang controlled neighborhoods. As of now the situation of the C-19 in Haiti is still low, compared to the neighboring country, The Dominican Republic, where 373 have died and 9,095 have tested positively (as well as 3,064 cured). Haiti's situation has not yet deteriorated as has been envisioned by the experts who have pointed out that so many of Haiti's city crowded neighborhoods cannot self isolate and that the health care system was very inadequate before the pandemic. My news is from the last several days in various newspapers. I have been in regular contact with our Haiti Liaison, Gentilhomme Jean-Gilles as well as Principal Haïle Noël, of St. Mary Magdalene Classical Center. Gentilhomme has also been able to communicate with Fr. Pierre Andre Laguerre, Pastor and Principal of St. Bernadette parish and school. Of course, due to C-19, all schools and church activities are suspended and physical distancing is the rule.
The bad news is that violent, gang-ridden (and reportedly with some government support) has taken over our two neighborhoods -- Grand Ravine and Martissant -- along with areas close to them and nationally crime has risen including kidnappings. In Grand Ravine/Martissant last week there were (At the end of this email I'm printing in English a letter from the Catholic Bishops Commission for Justice and Peace "CE-JILAP" about this grave problem that the government must address.) 22 people were murdered violently in the last week in our neighborhoods including fires of homes set. Pastor LaGuerre has in the past years and this year been involved with the "CE-JILAP" work in St. Bernadette parish even as they have had victims of violence. The parish has been able to start the course on "Yes To Life, Yes To The Future, We Youth Are Stopping Violence". The C-19 pandemic is picking up numbers and more are expected while people are not practicing the physical-distancing rules.
As we have announced earlier, our spring fundraiser, FishFry/Karaoke, was canceled. We are hoping that people wanting to support our coming year #11 (Sept.-June 2020-21) and hopefully #12 will go to our website at St. Columba and click on the "donate" button. <https://stcolumba-oak.com/hope-for-haiti-donations>
With love and care during this crisis of C-19,
Tom Luce
=======================
"Human Rights Organization Concerned about the situation in Bicentennial and Martissant"
Le Nouvelliste, 5/10/20 <https://lenouvelliste.com/journal/lenouvelliste/2020-05-09/1495>
The National Episcopal Justice and Peace Commission (CE-JILAP) is very worried about the resurgence of violence that is raging in downtown Port-au-Prince - Bicentennial, Martissant, Avenues Bolosse and Village-de-Dieu. "These areas are controlled by criminals, highway robbers and also henchmen of certain elected officials ...", underlined the Office for the protection of the citizen in a report published this week.
"The inhabitants living in these areas are practically unable to stay at home because of clashes between armed groups", deplored the director of CE-JILAP, Jocelyne Colas Noël, who speaks of several families who ended up in the street with nothing and do not know which saint to turn to after the bandits have burnt down their houses.
During a bloody weekend (April 17 to 19), armed groups in Grand-Ravine, reacting to an attack by "Baz Pilat", set fire to several houses on 4th avenue Bolosse. At least two people were killed while the previous weekend, twenty others were cowardly murdered.
The committee is shocked by the images of the horrific and scandalous scenes circulating on social networks showing members of one of the armed gangs in the south of the capital exhibiting parts of the body of one of their victims after having killed her and beheaded.
Faced with this cruelty like no other, this human rights organization puts the State at fault, making it responsible for this unfortunate situation. "The escalation of violence in Haiti, particularly in the working-class neighborhoods south of Port-au-Prince, is the result of bad political decisions made by Haitian governments, especially that of Moïse-Jouthe", criticized the EC- JILAP.
"Justice must be punished against any natural or legal person who continues to fuel the climate of violence and crime in the country, by continuing to supply arms and ammunition to the armed gangs," recommended the commission, which asked the State to stop making false promises, uttering threats, disturbing and disturbing inflammatory statements that do more harm than good.
The Minister of Justice and Public Security, Me Lucmane Délile, had granted 72 hours to the “good” people of Village-de-Dieu to leave the area. Two weeks later, this ultimatum remains without effect.
The OPC, after describing the Minister of Justice's warning as an inhuman ultimatum, recommended that Ms. Délile, through the Haitian National Police, consider concrete measures related to general principles of human rights aimed at the dismantling of all armed gangs without regard to political considerations.
The "Protector of the People" (a government position), Atty. Renan Hédouville, recommends that Prime Minister Joseph Jouthe rule on the situation unfolding in Village-de-Dieu and announce the accompanying measures that are adopted or likely to be adopted in favor families who have abandoned the village and those who are still there. (Note by Tom Luce: Mr. Hédouville was named by the current government of Haïti and was denounced by the National Human Rights Committee in Haiti, Pierre Espérance, Director, as an ally of the governments going back to former President Martelly and cannot be expected to “protect” the people. Le Nouvelliste, 10/27/17 <https://lenouvelliste.com/article/178336/renan-hedouville-le-nouveau-protecteur-du-citoyen-et-de-la-citoyenne>)
As early as this Friday, weapons were still heard in the area of Portail Léogane and Martissant. The bandits of Grand-Ravine and Village-de-Dieu were still at work.
========================
Our schools team, l-r, Gentilhomme Jean-Gille, Fr.Patrick Jean Louis, Ms. Shylaure Paul, K Directress, Fr. Pierre Laguerre, Haïle Noël. Very grateful for St. Columba's scholarship program.
#24 Mar. 31, Now Corona Virus! by Tom Luce
For the latest, most helpful article click: Haiti Analysis
NOTE: at the top of this page there is an icon to donate to our program. We are not going to be able to have our "FishFry" this year because of "Corona". Please consider donating online!
On behalf of the St. Bernadette Parish, our scholarship team, St Mary Magdalene school, St. Bernadette parish school sends their warm, respectful greetings to all at St. Columba parish for the wonderful support of their students! Everyone in Haiti including our partners are now at home quarantined to prevent Covid-19 from spreading. This will be another financial, not to mention health, crisis that our Haitian partners, especially students, will have to face. We need to stay aware of these crises.
Likewise, we at St. Columba and our supporters send the best wishes for their survival of these crises!
UPDATE: 5/1/20 based on the article co-written by my friend, Jeb Sprague, at Haiti Analysis
After only getting started with classes in early January, with some shutdowns and parents unwilling to send their children to school for fear of violence, now on March 19 Haiti has shut everything down--borders, ports, airports... SCHOOLS. CORONA VIRUS! Our communities are at greater risk than less disadvantaged sections of Port-Au-Prince. We hope to hear details as the crises are being faced.
Given Haiti's deteriorated condition after 400 years of slavery, another 100 of colonialism and after the 2010 earthquake, the cholera epidemic, and continued government corruption, there is expected to be a huge repercussion from the pandemic. Picture above is about the government and gang collaboration in suppressing activist communities last year. (Click: LASALINE )The population of 11.3 million has little access to equipment, buildings, health staff, and experts are warning that hundreds of thousands may die.
Unemployment is sky-high, 6 million living below poverty line at $2.42USD daily, Haitians face a grueling dilemma of how to feed thsmeselves and their families while avoiding virus infection. In the large cities, especially, Port-Au-Prince, many people live in one or two room shanties. Cité Soleil 200-400hundred thousand. A section of Cité Soleil in Port-Au-Prince. (See picture below.)
"Herd Immunity" might be the more effective way of dealing with this virus, for fewer deaths, according to Dr. John A. Carroll who has worked in clinics, hoospitals and orphanages iin Haiti since 1995. (Click his article in HaïtiLiberté: What Path.) "There is no treatment in Haiti that will be accessible by the masses," Carroll says. "No savings, stock of foods."
Dr. Paul Farmer points out, "...is there going to be electricity today, will the oxygen concentrators work...?" 911 doctors? Le Nouvelliste says, "...less than 130 Intensive Care Units -ICU for a population of more than 10 million.
As mentioned above, there has been a scary uptick in violence by gangs and in some instances (LASALINE) with the government involved in terrorism against the activists who were demonstrating against the current government. There is no legislature due to the failure (on purpose) of current Pres. Moïse to hold elections So the president is governing by decree, continuing to increase support for the disbanded (by Pres. Aristide in 1995) "FAd'H" Armed Forces of Haiti. As of now demonstratons and continued opposition to the current government have been suspended, but the opposition still demands the resignation. But everyone is cooperating to deal with the Covid-19 crisis.
For the latest, most helpful article click: Haiti Analysis
NOTE: at the top of this page there is an icon to donate to our program. We are not going to be able to have our "FishFry" this year because of "Corona". Please consider donating online!
On behalf of the St. Bernadette Parish, our scholarship team, St Mary Magdalene school, St. Bernadette parish school sends their warm, respectful greetings to all at St. Columba parish for the wonderful support of their students! Everyone in Haiti including our partners are now at home quarantined to prevent Covid-19 from spreading. This will be another financial, not to mention health, crisis that our Haitian partners, especially students, will have to face. We need to stay aware of these crises.
Likewise, we at St. Columba and our supporters send the best wishes for their survival of these crises!
UPDATE: 5/1/20 based on the article co-written by my friend, Jeb Sprague, at Haiti Analysis
After only getting started with classes in early January, with some shutdowns and parents unwilling to send their children to school for fear of violence, now on March 19 Haiti has shut everything down--borders, ports, airports... SCHOOLS. CORONA VIRUS! Our communities are at greater risk than less disadvantaged sections of Port-Au-Prince. We hope to hear details as the crises are being faced.
Given Haiti's deteriorated condition after 400 years of slavery, another 100 of colonialism and after the 2010 earthquake, the cholera epidemic, and continued government corruption, there is expected to be a huge repercussion from the pandemic. Picture above is about the government and gang collaboration in suppressing activist communities last year. (Click: LASALINE )The population of 11.3 million has little access to equipment, buildings, health staff, and experts are warning that hundreds of thousands may die.
Unemployment is sky-high, 6 million living below poverty line at $2.42USD daily, Haitians face a grueling dilemma of how to feed thsmeselves and their families while avoiding virus infection. In the large cities, especially, Port-Au-Prince, many people live in one or two room shanties. Cité Soleil 200-400hundred thousand. A section of Cité Soleil in Port-Au-Prince. (See picture below.)
"Herd Immunity" might be the more effective way of dealing with this virus, for fewer deaths, according to Dr. John A. Carroll who has worked in clinics, hoospitals and orphanages iin Haiti since 1995. (Click his article in HaïtiLiberté: What Path.) "There is no treatment in Haiti that will be accessible by the masses," Carroll says. "No savings, stock of foods."
Dr. Paul Farmer points out, "...is there going to be electricity today, will the oxygen concentrators work...?" 911 doctors? Le Nouvelliste says, "...less than 130 Intensive Care Units -ICU for a population of more than 10 million.
As mentioned above, there has been a scary uptick in violence by gangs and in some instances (LASALINE) with the government involved in terrorism against the activists who were demonstrating against the current government. There is no legislature due to the failure (on purpose) of current Pres. Moïse to hold elections So the president is governing by decree, continuing to increase support for the disbanded (by Pres. Aristide in 1995) "FAd'H" Armed Forces of Haiti. As of now demonstratons and continued opposition to the current government have been suspended, but the opposition still demands the resignation. But everyone is cooperating to deal with the Covid-19 crisis.
Haitians demanding US no longer support the violence, sometimes including Haitian government involvement, that has increased in the last year
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Cité Soleil, Port-Au-Prince, Haiti
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#23 Feb, 2020
1. BANNER AT THE SCHOOL (picture by G. Jean-Gilles): "Pastoral Training Program for the young and university students of the Archdiocese of Port-Au-Prince: Campaign to sensitise youth against violence. Yes to life! Yes to the future of youth. We must stop violence!" Feb. 12-Apr. 4
2. BANNER ON FRONT OF CHURCH (picture by G. Jean-Gilles): "Mother St. Bernadette, help us to bring peace and security together in our 3 communities" GOOD NEWS! St. Bernadette parish is continuing to work for justice-with-peace! Thanks to our Haiti Liaison, Gentilhomme Jean-Gilles, we have been able to continue to keep involved with the peace-with-justice work of the parish of St. Bernadette. The parish is sponsor of our two schools, St. Mary Magdalene and St. Bernadette. Its pastor, Father Pierre-André Laguerre, has invited Gentilhomme to work with him. Thanks to a generous donor we have been able to provide Gentilhomme with an additional stipend to help with this peace work in a city with much violence threatening everyone, putting Gentilhomme at great risk constantly just to get to the schools. A proposal for peace-making we made was turned down. Anyone interested in this work, please contact Tom Luce <hhecoordinator@gmail.com>. Our schools continue to be open but often have to close with the continued violence including murders in the area. Some parents are keeping their children home for fear of violence hurting them. Gentilhomme will continue to get our basics: lists of students, photos and short statements as well as some pictures and stories about current life in school. Fundraising for next year #11 is doing well, however, there is a possibility that we may have additional students due to the first half year when schools closed and the funds are being used to bring on new students. Already a donor has taken on the 8 new students at St. Bernadette, now making it 18 students. Keep in touch! |
St. Mary Magdalene Classical Center Scholarships - 50 Grand Ravine, St. Bernadette 18, Martissant, Port-Au-Prince, Haiti "Until She Spoke, No Christian nation had abolished slavery." Frederick Douglass, in Tribute to the Haitian Slave Revolt haitischolarships.weebly.com http://www.stcolumba-oak.com Tom Luce, Liaison, hhecoordinator@gmail.com 510-575-6326 From the most impoverished families Dear HHE Supporter: I'm sorry I've not been able to get my program to give you a personal greeting yet. But please be sure we have your name and your history with us. Bad News: The political situation remains stagnant, although with a little less violence and disruption of life. A few peaceful marches and demonstrations have been held denouncing the increased series of kidnappings for $$, some children and some notable adults. The demonstrators demanded the government provide a resolution of this horrid crime. They also call on all Haitians to work to force the the authorities to fulfill their responsabilities. The groups calling for the resignation of President Moïse still exist but there has been no action. The legislature is out of functiong due to no elections for replacing members. Government by decree. (Vant Bef, Feb.7) The Bishops' Commission for Justice and Peace (CE-JILAP) reported that some 20 people have been murdered in the first month of the year. Unfortunately several of these murders occurred in our parish zone, Martissant. The Executive Director of CE-JILAP, Jocelyne Colas Noël, compares the current kidnappings and violence to that of 2003/4 and calls on the government to stop the insecurity and estimates that the manner of government, the weakness of the State, the laxity of the agencies responsible for control and the impunity are feeding this serious insecurity. (Vant Bef Feb. 10) This past weekend a confrontation of hundreds of people reportedly between police and the new Haitian army ended in the death of one police man and one soldier. The area was where the annual Mardi Gras Carnaval was to take place. The stands for the Carnaval were burned and the Carnaval has been canceled. Reports are that opponents to the government are saying the money to fund the Carnaval is such an enormous bundle that it should be used for helping the education system. One story is that the police were protesting their bad working conditions and that the army, now under President Moïse, was told to control the police. The government has a different story, accidental shootings. (Nouvelliste Feb. 25) |
#22 Feb. 2020 Not so much good news, but some...
Dear HHE supporter,
Although our schools have been open—our main goal—things have been violent again for our team.
BAD:
1. On Sunday past, thieves broke into the home of Liaison who keeps contact with our schools and does work for us on Sunday. He has a very insecure cabin in an unfinished cement house. But as happened the first time a few months ago, the neighbors got together and chased the thieves away. Great to have neighbors like these!
2. Gentilhomme’s type 1 Diabetes is flaring up again and he had to go to the hospital but apparently he has been able to keep working because he was able to keep in touch with Fr. Laguerre. He is now a father of two boys and doing social justice advocacy is more difficult.
3. The Pastor of church and Principal of the school there reported he had to shelter in the church some family members of people (how many?) who had been murdered in the area. Armed gangs were involved. Not a normal week.
4. Rival gang wars in Grand Ravine ended in some killings and house burnings. No report about problems with school.
5. Hunger is bordering on a major crisis according to the U.N.
6. Police have a critical shortage of equipment and staff. An observation I read was that only President Moïse has adequate police protection, not inner city neighborhoods.
7. Pres. Moïse has moved ahead, in spite of the massive movement calling for his resignation, and announced he will have a constitutional reform by next year. He will be ruling by decree and critics say his constitutional rewrite will not be acceptable. Currently the Haitian parliament is shut down because the re-elections for members weren’t held. Our US President is supportive of Pres. Moïse.
GOOD:
1. 125 young people just graduated from a training program in Martissant with skills in tiling, cosmetology, cooking, masonry, electricity, computer programming and cell phone repair! This was with a program specifically aimed at keeping young people from being recruited by gangs.
2. The Marriott Accord ––”La Passerelle”, “The Gateway” in English––signed by all major political groups in the fall, except Fanmi Lavalas, has yet to be acted upon for government reform, but meetings are being scheduled again.
3. French economist Thomas Picketty has said that France should be repaying Haiti $28billion USD as reparations for demanding payment for the land and slaves the French lost in the 1804 revolution.
Dear HHE supporter,
Although our schools have been open—our main goal—things have been violent again for our team.
BAD:
1. On Sunday past, thieves broke into the home of Liaison who keeps contact with our schools and does work for us on Sunday. He has a very insecure cabin in an unfinished cement house. But as happened the first time a few months ago, the neighbors got together and chased the thieves away. Great to have neighbors like these!
2. Gentilhomme’s type 1 Diabetes is flaring up again and he had to go to the hospital but apparently he has been able to keep working because he was able to keep in touch with Fr. Laguerre. He is now a father of two boys and doing social justice advocacy is more difficult.
3. The Pastor of church and Principal of the school there reported he had to shelter in the church some family members of people (how many?) who had been murdered in the area. Armed gangs were involved. Not a normal week.
4. Rival gang wars in Grand Ravine ended in some killings and house burnings. No report about problems with school.
5. Hunger is bordering on a major crisis according to the U.N.
6. Police have a critical shortage of equipment and staff. An observation I read was that only President Moïse has adequate police protection, not inner city neighborhoods.
7. Pres. Moïse has moved ahead, in spite of the massive movement calling for his resignation, and announced he will have a constitutional reform by next year. He will be ruling by decree and critics say his constitutional rewrite will not be acceptable. Currently the Haitian parliament is shut down because the re-elections for members weren’t held. Our US President is supportive of Pres. Moïse.
GOOD:
1. 125 young people just graduated from a training program in Martissant with skills in tiling, cosmetology, cooking, masonry, electricity, computer programming and cell phone repair! This was with a program specifically aimed at keeping young people from being recruited by gangs.
2. The Marriott Accord ––”La Passerelle”, “The Gateway” in English––signed by all major political groups in the fall, except Fanmi Lavalas, has yet to be acted upon for government reform, but meetings are being scheduled again.
3. French economist Thomas Picketty has said that France should be repaying Haiti $28billion USD as reparations for demanding payment for the land and slaves the French lost in the 1804 revolution.
#21 Jan. 2020 Relative calm, classes begin day after New Year's
Dear HHE supporter: Although there have been some reports of violence in Haiti since I last wrote, a relative calm has settled in our two zones, Grand Ravine and Martissant. There has been no resolution of the movement to reform the government. Classes began last Thursday after New Year's. Here are pictures of students at St. Mary Magdalene school. The government has not been able to act as normal. Click the pictures to enlarge them singly.
Dear HHE supporter: Although there have been some reports of violence in Haiti since I last wrote, a relative calm has settled in our two zones, Grand Ravine and Martissant. There has been no resolution of the movement to reform the government. Classes began last Thursday after New Year's. Here are pictures of students at St. Mary Magdalene school. The government has not been able to act as normal. Click the pictures to enlarge them singly.
Below are the new students--18-- at the St. Bernadette parish school. Originally 10, but then because school didn't run in the first half, 8 more were added. Our scholarships provide not only tuition but school materials including uniforms and backpacks. Fr. Pierre Laguerre, Pastor and principal of the school is in the bottom left picture. Click to enlarge.
#20 Update Dec. 23, 2019 Relative Calm, Sunday Mass Again; Reform Statement
Dear HHE supporter:
Nothing new officially that I have heard about regarding the reformation of the government. Our partners report a period of relative calm, no more break-ins by gangs, no more murders in their streets. Even some work at selling things in the street shops. Sunday Mass has been begun again. The plans for organizing a peace-with-justice march are still in the making. Although the government has announced Jan 7 as the new school year start, nothing seems to be sure. Our partners will begin the first week in January adding new students with the money they couldn't spend in the first half of the year. They are pleased with our support for their plan for the new year.
Here is a statement about the demands of the government reformers from my partner from back in 2004, a Haitian lawyer, son of a peasant with whom I worked to organize community human rights councils in the tough sections of Port-Au-Prince after the ouster of Pres. Aristide. 2004-2010
Tom Luce
====================
NO MORE BLUFFING .. NO MORE TRICKS..
by Atty. Evel FANFAN, The son of a peasant ...
It is absolutely necessary to give back to the Haitian people their rights and their dignity.
----------------------------------------
The Haitian crisis is today complex, total and universal. It has finally reached its peak, its last peak, in an irreversible way.
The state in all its components –– the institutions, the actors, the beneficiaries of a system, too long imposed at the price of blood – is waking up totally unaware, incapable, helpless in the face of a fact ... palpable evidence that nothing can be as before in a republic where exclusiveness, shameless domination, excessive exploitation, glaring injustice and guaranteed impunity can no longer be the rule.
There will be no panacea or palliative for an outraged, humiliated people who, finally is becoming enraged, determined to create or even impose a new order under the aegis of social justice, solidarity and human dignity. "It is necessary to start all over".
Beware of unrepentant election riggers, those thirsty for lost power, the owners of political parties there for that .. the candidates who are always losing, the arrangers and givers of power .. this time .... the people are in a completely different place .. the arranged transition, the scheduled elections, the sharing of something unspoken will no longer be a recipe ... This system in its entirety the people want REMOVED.
A new order with:
* A united, humanitarian and egalitarian system ...
*A mechanism for equitable and balanced separation of the republic made equal through a Haitian national education system adapted to our needs of the moment and with a projection for the 50 generations to come.
* a preventive and responsible health system in a healthy and protected environment ....
* an integrated and united economic system supervised by the State.
* a rational political system capable of stimulating all citizens throughout the five (5) main trends: (left, right, center left, center right and the independents).
Set up a progressive, responsible civil society, concerned with the evolution of the country, therefore apolitical ...
Establish a security and national protection system. (voluntary service obligatory )
An autonomous, independent and strict judicial system (review the death penalty for financial crimes and civil degradation ......)
No more gossip .... no more cosmetic-bluff solutions .... We want a totally clean slate ....
This time we cannot have a fake transition making the rich richer.
A socio-political agreement for 25 years renewable,
Without stability and security there can be no development or even sustainable development ....
To get there, we finally need:
1. A Sovereign National Conference
2. The great corruption trial (petrocaribe + others)
Among other things, it is necessary to free without delay all the prisoners—men and women, political, social and economic prisoners of the country ...
This time there can be no other choice.
If we cannot accept change together, we will have to lose together
Dear HHE supporter:
Nothing new officially that I have heard about regarding the reformation of the government. Our partners report a period of relative calm, no more break-ins by gangs, no more murders in their streets. Even some work at selling things in the street shops. Sunday Mass has been begun again. The plans for organizing a peace-with-justice march are still in the making. Although the government has announced Jan 7 as the new school year start, nothing seems to be sure. Our partners will begin the first week in January adding new students with the money they couldn't spend in the first half of the year. They are pleased with our support for their plan for the new year.
Here is a statement about the demands of the government reformers from my partner from back in 2004, a Haitian lawyer, son of a peasant with whom I worked to organize community human rights councils in the tough sections of Port-Au-Prince after the ouster of Pres. Aristide. 2004-2010
Tom Luce
====================
NO MORE BLUFFING .. NO MORE TRICKS..
by Atty. Evel FANFAN, The son of a peasant ...
It is absolutely necessary to give back to the Haitian people their rights and their dignity.
----------------------------------------
The Haitian crisis is today complex, total and universal. It has finally reached its peak, its last peak, in an irreversible way.
The state in all its components –– the institutions, the actors, the beneficiaries of a system, too long imposed at the price of blood – is waking up totally unaware, incapable, helpless in the face of a fact ... palpable evidence that nothing can be as before in a republic where exclusiveness, shameless domination, excessive exploitation, glaring injustice and guaranteed impunity can no longer be the rule.
There will be no panacea or palliative for an outraged, humiliated people who, finally is becoming enraged, determined to create or even impose a new order under the aegis of social justice, solidarity and human dignity. "It is necessary to start all over".
Beware of unrepentant election riggers, those thirsty for lost power, the owners of political parties there for that .. the candidates who are always losing, the arrangers and givers of power .. this time .... the people are in a completely different place .. the arranged transition, the scheduled elections, the sharing of something unspoken will no longer be a recipe ... This system in its entirety the people want REMOVED.
A new order with:
* A united, humanitarian and egalitarian system ...
*A mechanism for equitable and balanced separation of the republic made equal through a Haitian national education system adapted to our needs of the moment and with a projection for the 50 generations to come.
* a preventive and responsible health system in a healthy and protected environment ....
* an integrated and united economic system supervised by the State.
* a rational political system capable of stimulating all citizens throughout the five (5) main trends: (left, right, center left, center right and the independents).
Set up a progressive, responsible civil society, concerned with the evolution of the country, therefore apolitical ...
Establish a security and national protection system. (voluntary service obligatory )
An autonomous, independent and strict judicial system (review the death penalty for financial crimes and civil degradation ......)
No more gossip .... no more cosmetic-bluff solutions .... We want a totally clean slate ....
This time we cannot have a fake transition making the rich richer.
A socio-political agreement for 25 years renewable,
Without stability and security there can be no development or even sustainable development ....
To get there, we finally need:
1. A Sovereign National Conference
2. The great corruption trial (petrocaribe + others)
Among other things, it is necessary to free without delay all the prisoners—men and women, political, social and economic prisoners of the country ...
This time there can be no other choice.
If we cannot accept change together, we will have to lose together
#19 Update Dec. 13, 2019 Brave news from our partners! No good news otherwise by Tom Luce, Liaison HHE
1. Our Partners:
b. Now since the "lockdown" ( first in July '18 when among others, an interfaith coalition with massive peaceful demonstrations successfully called for the resignation of the Prime Minister) there have been continuing nationwide non-violent demonstrations for the social justice principles that have been torn away from the general population. These demonstrations have been interfaith, inter-party. And organized non-violently even though the usual violent elements have interfered, most egregiously in places like Lasalin where the government collaborated with gangs to slaughter, torture, burn, rape residents of pro-reformers.
c. The "Peacemaking" must continue and improve communications and collaboration with interfaith, civic involvement to overcome the violence of gangs and criminals.
d. We hope to obtain some funding again for the "Peaceful Youth Empowerment" grant from the "Peace Development Fund" that we applied for after the murder of one of our teachers in 2017. There is much time and risk right now that will cost our partners much energy, courage, and persistence before we get any funds from PDF. Hopefully their success will be solid and growing without any harm to them! I will try to keep you informed as we move along.
b. "Statement in support of the struggles of the Haitian People" by the U.S. Chapter of In Defense of Humanity, Network of Intellectuals, Artists and Social Movements. Note: credibility of this group for me is based on several board members I know personally--Danny Glover, Gayle McLaughlin, Bishop Thomas Gumbleton...
c. "Haiti's Unraveling: What Next?" Another CSIS report Oct. 21, 2019 18 Months of political crisis with no end in sight. The UN failure. US policy
1. Our Partners:
- School: Not having had any results about beginning the school year from any official sources, our partners have decided to begin in January. And,
- Do "Peacemaking" in the rest of December among the local communities of Gran Ravine and Martissant, the places where our church and schools are located.
b. Now since the "lockdown" ( first in July '18 when among others, an interfaith coalition with massive peaceful demonstrations successfully called for the resignation of the Prime Minister) there have been continuing nationwide non-violent demonstrations for the social justice principles that have been torn away from the general population. These demonstrations have been interfaith, inter-party. And organized non-violently even though the usual violent elements have interfered, most egregiously in places like Lasalin where the government collaborated with gangs to slaughter, torture, burn, rape residents of pro-reformers.
c. The "Peacemaking" must continue and improve communications and collaboration with interfaith, civic involvement to overcome the violence of gangs and criminals.
d. We hope to obtain some funding again for the "Peaceful Youth Empowerment" grant from the "Peace Development Fund" that we applied for after the murder of one of our teachers in 2017. There is much time and risk right now that will cost our partners much energy, courage, and persistence before we get any funds from PDF. Hopefully their success will be solid and growing without any harm to them! I will try to keep you informed as we move along.
- Adding new students! With the funds for the first 1/2 of the school year not used, our partners have decided to bring in new students for the second 1/2 in addition to our already enrolled scholarship recipients. This underscores our partners' commitment to education as the top priority for the most impoverished children. At the very least these new students will have a 1/2 year of classes, perhaps some of them begining to overcome the illiteracy of so many who end up in the streets, in "Restavek", or worse becoming victims in criminal enterprises.
- There has been no resolution of the severe breakdown in the government and the ongoing demands of the opposition for President Moïse's resignation. Here is an independent update on the situation from the think tank, CSIS- Center For Strategic and International Studies in D.C. CSIS Haiti:Next Crisis Dec. 12 (note: I, Tom Luce, have just learned the history of the CSIS from >Wikipedia>The fact that it was rejected by it's founder, Georgetown Univ., in 1986, for its lack of scholarly research is a factor in my evaluation of CISIS's judgement, but this current article is worth reading for an upate. To get a fuller Haitian oriented view I've provided other sources below, i.e. a. and b. below.) The author, Georges A. Fauriol, lists the series of conflicts and current lack of progress. He points out that the world-wide scene of protests has overshadowed Haiti's deep crisis.
- There has been a reduction in the street demonstrations. Some business activity has grown. But no progress in getting the opposition groups, calling for the president's resignation, a role in forming a new government. The president still has the support of the U.S. government. Naming a new Prime Minister requires the collaboration of the President of the Senate, Carl Murat Cantave, who says he has received no communication from President Moïse who says he wants to name somebody before the end of the year.
- More demonstrations are being planned. The already critical problems of food and health care have been worsening.
- Deeper analysis: Here are two sources of importance in understanding the history and the dire circumstances in which Haiti has been in for some time and now finds itself even more in crisis.
b. "Statement in support of the struggles of the Haitian People" by the U.S. Chapter of In Defense of Humanity, Network of Intellectuals, Artists and Social Movements. Note: credibility of this group for me is based on several board members I know personally--Danny Glover, Gayle McLaughlin, Bishop Thomas Gumbleton...
c. "Haiti's Unraveling: What Next?" Another CSIS report Oct. 21, 2019 18 Months of political crisis with no end in sight. The UN failure. US policy
#18 Update Nov. 30. No good news
1. Gentilhomme: His 4 yr old son had his foot fractured, but has improved. His neighborhood is still in fear of a return of gang thieves as gang violence has increased throughout the country with no state handling of these crimes.
2. Our School Partners: Gentilhomme was able--in spite of blocked streets and ongoing violence in Martissant where our partner parish, St. Bernadette, is located--to get a meeting with both school leaders on Wednesday, Nov. 27. No plans are official to open schools yet. One problem for our new school is that they were unable to purchase school supplies in August. Now purchasing these supplies will be more difficult with the driving problems and the raise in prices of school items.
3. No movement for the opposition groups to begin the reformation of the government. Pres. Moïse continues to say he will stay in office. The government has begun to make cases against protesters. A group of six illegally jailed have been released. A former senator, Arnel Belizaire, was arrested with a cache of arms. No one involved—allegedly government officials working with gangs—in the Lasalin Massacre has been arrested. See story of this horrible violence done last year below—#1–, or just click here Lasalin Massacre.
4. The Catholic Bishops have issued a call for settling the “lockdown”: Nov. 30, 2019. They call on the current government and the opposition groups demanding the resignation of the President to work on a resolution with both sides being willing to negotiate. They state that the situation is not just a current problem of inequality but a deep and structural problem that must be changed. They say that the claims being brought to the streets for the last year are “justified and legitimate... We are at your side so that the new day for your dear Haiti will arrive.” The article reporting this call is at this website. Download the file below for the English translation. They also say that any elected government has to "merit" respect. They also condemn the violence that has been perpetrated in the last year of protests.
5. The US continues to support the elected government.
1. Gentilhomme: His 4 yr old son had his foot fractured, but has improved. His neighborhood is still in fear of a return of gang thieves as gang violence has increased throughout the country with no state handling of these crimes.
2. Our School Partners: Gentilhomme was able--in spite of blocked streets and ongoing violence in Martissant where our partner parish, St. Bernadette, is located--to get a meeting with both school leaders on Wednesday, Nov. 27. No plans are official to open schools yet. One problem for our new school is that they were unable to purchase school supplies in August. Now purchasing these supplies will be more difficult with the driving problems and the raise in prices of school items.
3. No movement for the opposition groups to begin the reformation of the government. Pres. Moïse continues to say he will stay in office. The government has begun to make cases against protesters. A group of six illegally jailed have been released. A former senator, Arnel Belizaire, was arrested with a cache of arms. No one involved—allegedly government officials working with gangs—in the Lasalin Massacre has been arrested. See story of this horrible violence done last year below—#1–, or just click here Lasalin Massacre.
4. The Catholic Bishops have issued a call for settling the “lockdown”: Nov. 30, 2019. They call on the current government and the opposition groups demanding the resignation of the President to work on a resolution with both sides being willing to negotiate. They state that the situation is not just a current problem of inequality but a deep and structural problem that must be changed. They say that the claims being brought to the streets for the last year are “justified and legitimate... We are at your side so that the new day for your dear Haiti will arrive.” The article reporting this call is at this website. Download the file below for the English translation. They also say that any elected government has to "merit" respect. They also condemn the violence that has been perpetrated in the last year of protests.
5. The US continues to support the elected government.
| bishopshaiti.rtf |
#17 Update Nov. 23. 1. Our partners in trouble; 2. No progress by group(s) to reform government
1. Our partners in trouble:
a. Last Sunday at 2 a.m. Gentihomme's neighborhood was invaded by gangster thieves. Only some electrical wires were stolen before the neighbors got together and drove the gangsters out. This neighborhood has not been a gang controlled section--until now. Everyone is afraid they will return. Gentilhomme has to develop more secure protection.
b. Our partner church was mentioned in an article about gangs killing 3 people on Nov. 21. "These victims were attacked and removed near the Church of St. *****." Gentilhomme has not been able to meet with the school director since last week when he learned about his speaking on the radio and participating in the large demonstrations.
c.Recently in Grand Ravine--where our first school is located--two people were killed. Mr. Noël has returned from outside the city, but there is no activity at the school.
2. No progress by group(s) to reform the government:
a. In spite of the group of 5 formulating the "Marriott Agreement"--not supported by the important party of former Pres. Aristide--Fanmi Lavalas--there has been no further agreement to move ahead with the agreement.
b. Pres. Moïse has not recognized the call for him to resign and continues about his work even though there is less formality, e.g. he didn't go to the scene of the national holiday of "Vertières" the place where in 1803 Haiti had their victory over the French. He did have a meeting with the heads of the two elected bodies, Senate and Chamber of Deputies as well as with the President of the Suprem Court.
c. U.S. Ambassador to the U.N, Kelly Craft, had a private meeting with some opposition group members where she was told the U.S. must not continue to support President Moïse who is "responsible for all the ills of the country. She said she was not told to lay down any order but to encourage everyone to sit down and work out an agreement--including President Moïse. Former senator and presidential candidate Moïses Jean-Charles criticized those who agreed to meet with Ambassador Craft.
d. Counter to a rumor that stated school would begin on December 2, the Haitian Education Department has stated that there is no actual plan set. It could possibly be in December or also in January. The statement emphasized that there must be a date soon and that the right to education is priceless..
1. Our partners in trouble:
a. Last Sunday at 2 a.m. Gentihomme's neighborhood was invaded by gangster thieves. Only some electrical wires were stolen before the neighbors got together and drove the gangsters out. This neighborhood has not been a gang controlled section--until now. Everyone is afraid they will return. Gentilhomme has to develop more secure protection.
b. Our partner church was mentioned in an article about gangs killing 3 people on Nov. 21. "These victims were attacked and removed near the Church of St. *****." Gentilhomme has not been able to meet with the school director since last week when he learned about his speaking on the radio and participating in the large demonstrations.
c.Recently in Grand Ravine--where our first school is located--two people were killed. Mr. Noël has returned from outside the city, but there is no activity at the school.
2. No progress by group(s) to reform the government:
a. In spite of the group of 5 formulating the "Marriott Agreement"--not supported by the important party of former Pres. Aristide--Fanmi Lavalas--there has been no further agreement to move ahead with the agreement.
b. Pres. Moïse has not recognized the call for him to resign and continues about his work even though there is less formality, e.g. he didn't go to the scene of the national holiday of "Vertières" the place where in 1803 Haiti had their victory over the French. He did have a meeting with the heads of the two elected bodies, Senate and Chamber of Deputies as well as with the President of the Suprem Court.
c. U.S. Ambassador to the U.N, Kelly Craft, had a private meeting with some opposition group members where she was told the U.S. must not continue to support President Moïse who is "responsible for all the ills of the country. She said she was not told to lay down any order but to encourage everyone to sit down and work out an agreement--including President Moïse. Former senator and presidential candidate Moïses Jean-Charles criticized those who agreed to meet with Ambassador Craft.
d. Counter to a rumor that stated school would begin on December 2, the Haitian Education Department has stated that there is no actual plan set. It could possibly be in December or also in January. The statement emphasized that there must be a date soon and that the right to education is priceless..
Photo of PHTK party denying that they have been part of or that they support the "Marriott" plan which would replace President Moïse.
#16 Update Nov. 15: 1. No progress by group(s) to reform government; 2.UN Emergency Aid/US aid ship-By Tom Luce
1. No progress: As of this moment I have seen nothing changing in the "lockdown" status of Haiti. Schools still closed with no plan to open, continuation of demonstrations for the resignation of Pres. Moïse on Nov. 18 by major groups, and no solid coalition with unified reform plan. And, of course, nothing new from the President regarding his resignation. Check out the article from Haiti Liberté in English, a regularly trustworthy source, "Opposition Coaltions Unite..." Note: a rumor is now circulating that Pres. Moïse has agreed to resign with the plan that the reform group(s) has/have made and that he will be taken to Brazil. No corroboration of this anywhere that I've seen but it could be part of a plan worked out with the U.S. administration and Brazil.
"The United Nations is planning to deliver humanitarian aid by air. Planning is well underway and operations could start as early as next week" by Fernando Hiraldo, UNDP Resident Representative in Haiti, Port-au-Prince, November 15, 2019. -
The UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Haiti, Fernando Hiraldo, informed in an interview with EFE that the UN is in the process of being able to deliver humanitarian aid by air to regions that are in need but difficult to access because of roadblocks and barricades.
"It is planned to set up a United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) using a helicopter, which could be operational from next week and will initially operate for a period of three months," Hiraldo said.
We need to be able to provide the necessary assistance where it is needed without being disturbed by road blockages, barricades or the presence of armed persons on the roads, says the UN Resident Representative in Haiti of the United Nations Program for development (UNDP).
Barricades and roadblocks on Haiti's main roads have been constant since the outbreak of demonstrations against President Jovenel Moise on September 16th.
"These obstacles obviously prevent humanitarian organizations from organizing their work and helping hundreds of thousands of Haitians in vulnerable situations," Hiraldo said.
According to UN data released in early October, 35% of the Haitian population, about 3.67 million people, need urgent assistance to meet their basic food needs.
Of these, about one million people are in a state of emergency, the fourth level on the international scale of the CPI, which measures food insecurity at five levels.
Food insecurity has worsened since the onset of the crisis, largely due to the inability of workers in UN agencies and NGOs to deliver aid.
Roadblocks, fuel shortages and armed groups have paralyzed the vast majority of the country's economic activities in the last eight weeks
1. No progress: As of this moment I have seen nothing changing in the "lockdown" status of Haiti. Schools still closed with no plan to open, continuation of demonstrations for the resignation of Pres. Moïse on Nov. 18 by major groups, and no solid coalition with unified reform plan. And, of course, nothing new from the President regarding his resignation. Check out the article from Haiti Liberté in English, a regularly trustworthy source, "Opposition Coaltions Unite..." Note: a rumor is now circulating that Pres. Moïse has agreed to resign with the plan that the reform group(s) has/have made and that he will be taken to Brazil. No corroboration of this anywhere that I've seen but it could be part of a plan worked out with the U.S. administration and Brazil.
- Our local sources are still staying out of the streets, threatened with gang violence including killings, no schools, church services canceled; continued murders by police/gang actions in various cities mounting beyond 30 dead.
- The "Mariott Accord" which I wrote about in article #15 did bring together 7 political groups including the Aristide party, "Fanmi Lavalas", but although they did create a major process for creating a replacement government, they couldn't agree on how to replace the president. Fanmi Lavalas said to pick one of the current judges from the supreme court would be simply putting the corrupt government right back in power. See details about this in the Haiti Liberté article.
- Although the publicity on the "Marriott Accord" stated that the current ruling party, PHTK- "The Bald Head Party" also participated in the process, PHTK has issued a denial that they are in any way involved or supportive. See photo above. Pres. Moïse still remains unmoved by the call for his resignation. So the above noted "rumor" seems at odds with this PHTK stand.
- Today the newspaper Le Nouvelliste reports that the "Marriott Accord" group--without Fanmi Lavalas--has been working out the steps for getting the transitional government in place. Whether this will have any success remains to be seen.
"The United Nations is planning to deliver humanitarian aid by air. Planning is well underway and operations could start as early as next week" by Fernando Hiraldo, UNDP Resident Representative in Haiti, Port-au-Prince, November 15, 2019. -
The UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Haiti, Fernando Hiraldo, informed in an interview with EFE that the UN is in the process of being able to deliver humanitarian aid by air to regions that are in need but difficult to access because of roadblocks and barricades.
"It is planned to set up a United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) using a helicopter, which could be operational from next week and will initially operate for a period of three months," Hiraldo said.
We need to be able to provide the necessary assistance where it is needed without being disturbed by road blockages, barricades or the presence of armed persons on the roads, says the UN Resident Representative in Haiti of the United Nations Program for development (UNDP).
Barricades and roadblocks on Haiti's main roads have been constant since the outbreak of demonstrations against President Jovenel Moise on September 16th.
"These obstacles obviously prevent humanitarian organizations from organizing their work and helping hundreds of thousands of Haitians in vulnerable situations," Hiraldo said.
According to UN data released in early October, 35% of the Haitian population, about 3.67 million people, need urgent assistance to meet their basic food needs.
Of these, about one million people are in a state of emergency, the fourth level on the international scale of the CPI, which measures food insecurity at five levels.
Food insecurity has worsened since the onset of the crisis, largely due to the inability of workers in UN agencies and NGOs to deliver aid.
Roadblocks, fuel shortages and armed groups have paralyzed the vast majority of the country's economic activities in the last eight weeks
#15 Update: Group Meeting at Marriott, by Tom Luce
Note: the points below are from reading an article in Le Nouvelliste 11/11/19, "A president from the Court of Cassation, a break between Fanmi Lavalas, RNDP and the five other opposition groups"
As you can read again below in Article #11 by Lucien Pierre, the Core Group created by the UN, which has been informally but seriously involved in Haiti governmental affairs after the 2010 earthquake, is split. The US, Brazil and the OAS (Organization of American States) are on the side of Pres. Moïse. France, Canada, the European Union, Germany and Spain are outraged at Presidents Trump and Bolsorano for their support of Pres. Moïse. Mr. Pierre says that the US is ..."not fighting poverty but the poor." There is much opposition to any role this UN outsider Core Group might play.
Last weekend at the Marriott hotel in Port-Au-Prince there was a meeting of 7 political groups that worked on a plan to follow the replacement of the current government. A plan--except for how to replace the president-- was agreed upon. Two groups, Fanmi Lavalas (Lavalas --Creole for "flood"-- Family, former President Aristide's party) and the RNDP, The Assembly of Progressive National Democrats rejected the plan to replace th3e president. The majority chose to select a judge from the Haitian Supreme Court, Court of Cassation. The minority groups said to pick someone from this body would be putting in another corrupt figure from the existing corrupt government.
Although these opposition groups felt that they had achieved a serious amount of unity and could represent the majority of Haitians in reforming the government, it is still not clear from the news reports what authority they can exercise when President Moïse still refuses to consider resigning. In the meantime there doesn't seem to be any movement to reopen schools. Some return of business activity has been reported.
Note: the points below are from reading an article in Le Nouvelliste 11/11/19, "A president from the Court of Cassation, a break between Fanmi Lavalas, RNDP and the five other opposition groups"
As you can read again below in Article #11 by Lucien Pierre, the Core Group created by the UN, which has been informally but seriously involved in Haiti governmental affairs after the 2010 earthquake, is split. The US, Brazil and the OAS (Organization of American States) are on the side of Pres. Moïse. France, Canada, the European Union, Germany and Spain are outraged at Presidents Trump and Bolsorano for their support of Pres. Moïse. Mr. Pierre says that the US is ..."not fighting poverty but the poor." There is much opposition to any role this UN outsider Core Group might play.
Last weekend at the Marriott hotel in Port-Au-Prince there was a meeting of 7 political groups that worked on a plan to follow the replacement of the current government. A plan--except for how to replace the president-- was agreed upon. Two groups, Fanmi Lavalas (Lavalas --Creole for "flood"-- Family, former President Aristide's party) and the RNDP, The Assembly of Progressive National Democrats rejected the plan to replace th3e president. The majority chose to select a judge from the Haitian Supreme Court, Court of Cassation. The minority groups said to pick someone from this body would be putting in another corrupt figure from the existing corrupt government.
Although these opposition groups felt that they had achieved a serious amount of unity and could represent the majority of Haitians in reforming the government, it is still not clear from the news reports what authority they can exercise when President Moïse still refuses to consider resigning. In the meantime there doesn't seem to be any movement to reopen schools. Some return of business activity has been reported.
#14- "Crisis In Haiti Reaches New Dimensions" - Resumen
A new journal referred by Michael Eisenscher of USLAW (US Labor Against War)
A deep and excellent news source! The article treats issues in Latin America and the Caribbean. They speak positively of the "Patriotic Forum" that was not praised by Kim Ives in his interview, saying that they had too many "elites". They spell out in some detail the food crisis affecting 49.3% of Haitians especially rural peasants who haven't been able to harvest their crops. They talk about the problem asking for help from the U.S. which, as in the past including the 2010 earthquake could entail an "invasion" by US troops and more interference. Interesting reading.
A new journal referred by Michael Eisenscher of USLAW (US Labor Against War)
A deep and excellent news source! The article treats issues in Latin America and the Caribbean. They speak positively of the "Patriotic Forum" that was not praised by Kim Ives in his interview, saying that they had too many "elites". They spell out in some detail the food crisis affecting 49.3% of Haitians especially rural peasants who haven't been able to harvest their crops. They talk about the problem asking for help from the U.S. which, as in the past including the 2010 earthquake could entail an "invasion" by US troops and more interference. Interesting reading.
#13. Radio discussion: Kim Ives (Haiti Liberte) and "By Any Means Necessary" podcast: Solution to new government
To listen to this Radio Show click HERE
SUMMARY: Kim Ives, Oct. 16, 2019, says Pres. Moïse is on the way out. No government since March. There are two groups organizing to form a transition government. Two fronts:
1) "Patriots", US embassy, bourgeoisie, Episcopal bishop, unions, civil societies, human rights groups. Seems this one will emerge as dominant commission to form transition;
2)Alternative Consensus: 8-10 left to extreme right groups, academics, government officials, Himmler Rebu (carry-over from Baby Doc Duvalier regime).
US Embassy still silent. UN rejected by Haitians
My comments: It seems according to Kim's report about the "Patriots" group which he says seems dominant will be pretty much controlled by the elites instead of a representative group of political citizens group. And if the US embassy stays in, there will not be likely approval of any form of government that would be alien to the Trump administration especially with regard to Venezuela. So even if the US goes along with the resignation of Prev. Moïse--so far the US has opposed this--there will be a pro-US form of government. According to the letter from the NY Haitian American, #11 "The Torn Core Group", the US is in the minority regarding Pres. Moïse's resignation. ??? When there was an interfaith pressure --Catholic Bishops and The Protestant Union-- last summer that got rid of the Prime Minister and now with more demonstrations for Pres. Moïse's resignation, perhaps there will be some other group demanding involvement in the transition. I'm pushing my contacts to search out this possibility.
To listen to this Radio Show click HERE
SUMMARY: Kim Ives, Oct. 16, 2019, says Pres. Moïse is on the way out. No government since March. There are two groups organizing to form a transition government. Two fronts:
1) "Patriots", US embassy, bourgeoisie, Episcopal bishop, unions, civil societies, human rights groups. Seems this one will emerge as dominant commission to form transition;
2)Alternative Consensus: 8-10 left to extreme right groups, academics, government officials, Himmler Rebu (carry-over from Baby Doc Duvalier regime).
US Embassy still silent. UN rejected by Haitians
My comments: It seems according to Kim's report about the "Patriots" group which he says seems dominant will be pretty much controlled by the elites instead of a representative group of political citizens group. And if the US embassy stays in, there will not be likely approval of any form of government that would be alien to the Trump administration especially with regard to Venezuela. So even if the US goes along with the resignation of Prev. Moïse--so far the US has opposed this--there will be a pro-US form of government. According to the letter from the NY Haitian American, #11 "The Torn Core Group", the US is in the minority regarding Pres. Moïse's resignation. ??? When there was an interfaith pressure --Catholic Bishops and The Protestant Union-- last summer that got rid of the Prime Minister and now with more demonstrations for Pres. Moïse's resignation, perhaps there will be some other group demanding involvement in the transition. I'm pushing my contacts to search out this possibility.
#12. US Government's Position translated by Tom Luce
The US places its condition to send aid to Haiti. by Alexis Abdias 10.31.2019 Trip Foumi
https://www.tripfoumi.com/blog/2019/10/31/les-etats-unis-posent-sa-condition-pour-envoyer-de-laide-en-haiti/
The ultimate condition for the United States to respond to the request of the President of the Republic through the Haitian Chancellor is the formation of a new government. This is why the country of Uncle Sam continues to urge Haitian political actors to dialogue.
The last two notes reflecting the United States' position on the crisis in Haiti are corroborated by the statements of a State Department official at the microphone of the Voice of the America journalist Ronald César.
So the undersecretary of state at the US State Department did not mix words to state clearly: "We must recognize that all Haitians are tired. That is why we want all the political actors to sit down as soon as possible to dialogue in order to form a government ". It is, according to him, the condition that must be fulfilled by the President for Trump to come to the aid of Haiti. "We are studying this request quickly. This demand shows that the problems in Haiti are greater in the absence of a functional government. This situation worries us and worries the international community. We know that the Haitian people are suffering right now. As we study this demand, we want all political actors to work together to form a government, "he said.
Meanwhile, on the issue of requesting logistics for the distribution of aid requested in the United States, the undersecretary said that if there is a logistical problem, the United States will study it. However, nothing is known yet.
In the same vein, this official has not put aside all the popular demands that occupy the opinion where all sectors launch their cry separately through sit-ins, demonstrations and other means available to them. So, he states that the United States supports the right of the Haitian people to demonstrate. However, the downside is that it must be done without violence, in peace.
"President Moïse is the President of Haiti, it is a clear question. At the same time, there are senators and MPs who have the responsibility to face the challenges of the Haitian people, " he said while saying that the dialogue is inevitable to get the country out of this crisis empire every second. These are the actors who must meet around a table, talk and form a government, says John Piechowski.
Of note, senators and opposition members are on an official trip to the United States, just to meet with US authorities in Washington to discuss the crisis in Haiti. Meanwhile, the mobilizations continue in the streets of the capital, as well as in provincial towns. Haitians continue to demand the resignation of President Jovenel Moïse.
The US places its condition to send aid to Haiti. by Alexis Abdias 10.31.2019 Trip Foumi
https://www.tripfoumi.com/blog/2019/10/31/les-etats-unis-posent-sa-condition-pour-envoyer-de-laide-en-haiti/
The ultimate condition for the United States to respond to the request of the President of the Republic through the Haitian Chancellor is the formation of a new government. This is why the country of Uncle Sam continues to urge Haitian political actors to dialogue.
The last two notes reflecting the United States' position on the crisis in Haiti are corroborated by the statements of a State Department official at the microphone of the Voice of the America journalist Ronald César.
So the undersecretary of state at the US State Department did not mix words to state clearly: "We must recognize that all Haitians are tired. That is why we want all the political actors to sit down as soon as possible to dialogue in order to form a government ". It is, according to him, the condition that must be fulfilled by the President for Trump to come to the aid of Haiti. "We are studying this request quickly. This demand shows that the problems in Haiti are greater in the absence of a functional government. This situation worries us and worries the international community. We know that the Haitian people are suffering right now. As we study this demand, we want all political actors to work together to form a government, "he said.
Meanwhile, on the issue of requesting logistics for the distribution of aid requested in the United States, the undersecretary said that if there is a logistical problem, the United States will study it. However, nothing is known yet.
In the same vein, this official has not put aside all the popular demands that occupy the opinion where all sectors launch their cry separately through sit-ins, demonstrations and other means available to them. So, he states that the United States supports the right of the Haitian people to demonstrate. However, the downside is that it must be done without violence, in peace.
"President Moïse is the President of Haiti, it is a clear question. At the same time, there are senators and MPs who have the responsibility to face the challenges of the Haitian people, " he said while saying that the dialogue is inevitable to get the country out of this crisis empire every second. These are the actors who must meet around a table, talk and form a government, says John Piechowski.
Of note, senators and opposition members are on an official trip to the United States, just to meet with US authorities in Washington to discuss the crisis in Haiti. Meanwhile, the mobilizations continue in the streets of the capital, as well as in provincial towns. Haitians continue to demand the resignation of President Jovenel Moïse.
#11. The Torn "CORE GROUP" translated by Tom Luce
(In my search to find out what is going on among the various protest groups, I have asked Gentilhomme to send me what he sees. This article on the "CORE GROUP" (see article below, a denunciation of the "CORE GROUP" by the Bureau of International Lawyers, a group I have worked with since 2004) from a New Yorker, Haitian American, is helpful. Lucien Pierre shows a critique of the US role in this unofficial group that has been directing the Haitian government since the earthquake in 2010. Very important to read to understand the problem in Haiti now.
The Torn CORE GROUP about Pres. Jovenel Moïse by Lucien Pierre (sent Nov. 1 to T. Luce via Gentilhomme)
The mandate of Jovenel Moses continues to be divisive. After the Economic Forum, now it is around the members of CORE GROUP, divided into two camps with Michelle Sison (US Ambassador to Haiti) at the head of the hawks who want to maintain Jovenel and José Gomèz at the head of those who stand alongside the Haitian people, asphyxiated by a serious political imbroglio turned into a humanitarian crisis.
Of the 9 members, it is the United States of America, Brazil and the OAS who swear by keeping Jovenel Moses in power despite this finding of obvious failure. France, Canada, the European Union, Germany and Spain have been indignant against the band of Donald Trump and Bolsorano hawks who support a president at all costs for having only participated in a senseless vote at the OAS against Venezuela.
The UN is in a delicate situation, denouncing acts of human rights violations in a report, but it is unable to convince the United States to let go of Jovenel Moses.
The US Ambassador and the OAS Representative are striking hard on the table to force other diplomats to sign a note of support for Jovenel Moïse.
After several days of discussions, the United States and the OAS are unable to move the position of other members who believe that it is unfair that the international community, which calls itself a friend of the Haitian people, support a president so hated by his people.
The United States claims to be a champion of human rights in the world, yet under their noses, several massacres have been perpetrated against the populations of La Saline and Carrefour-feuille, the United States embassy has not raised a finger for these poor victims of the assaults of Fednel Monchéry and Pierre Richard Duplan, two high executives of the administration of Jovenel Moses, fired last week.
The United States does not fight against poverty, but the poor, as the other side says. As they just did in Venezuela, they support the unjust and spit on justice.
Behind the scenes of the UN and some European embassies in Haiti, more and more, observers are beginning to agree with those who consider the Americans as the worst enemies of Haiti. The Americans, although inevitable in this way out of the crisis, keep the Haitian people under the yoke of a president who is corrupt and embezzler has now passed the level of assassin.
The United States claims to support a president, however, the people live in a dark misery. The Americans must understand that they will be held as morally responsible before the international criminal courts for what promises to be worse than in Rwanda. We must mobilize our brothers and sisters all over the world to denounce loud and clear the injustice done to Haiti by America.
All activists should block access to the US embassy and employees. May JUSTICE be returned to the Haitians ..
Lucien Pierre
NY, USA
The Torn CORE GROUP about Pres. Jovenel Moïse by Lucien Pierre (sent Nov. 1 to T. Luce via Gentilhomme)
The mandate of Jovenel Moses continues to be divisive. After the Economic Forum, now it is around the members of CORE GROUP, divided into two camps with Michelle Sison (US Ambassador to Haiti) at the head of the hawks who want to maintain Jovenel and José Gomèz at the head of those who stand alongside the Haitian people, asphyxiated by a serious political imbroglio turned into a humanitarian crisis.
Of the 9 members, it is the United States of America, Brazil and the OAS who swear by keeping Jovenel Moses in power despite this finding of obvious failure. France, Canada, the European Union, Germany and Spain have been indignant against the band of Donald Trump and Bolsorano hawks who support a president at all costs for having only participated in a senseless vote at the OAS against Venezuela.
The UN is in a delicate situation, denouncing acts of human rights violations in a report, but it is unable to convince the United States to let go of Jovenel Moses.
The US Ambassador and the OAS Representative are striking hard on the table to force other diplomats to sign a note of support for Jovenel Moïse.
After several days of discussions, the United States and the OAS are unable to move the position of other members who believe that it is unfair that the international community, which calls itself a friend of the Haitian people, support a president so hated by his people.
The United States claims to be a champion of human rights in the world, yet under their noses, several massacres have been perpetrated against the populations of La Saline and Carrefour-feuille, the United States embassy has not raised a finger for these poor victims of the assaults of Fednel Monchéry and Pierre Richard Duplan, two high executives of the administration of Jovenel Moses, fired last week.
The United States does not fight against poverty, but the poor, as the other side says. As they just did in Venezuela, they support the unjust and spit on justice.
Behind the scenes of the UN and some European embassies in Haiti, more and more, observers are beginning to agree with those who consider the Americans as the worst enemies of Haiti. The Americans, although inevitable in this way out of the crisis, keep the Haitian people under the yoke of a president who is corrupt and embezzler has now passed the level of assassin.
The United States claims to support a president, however, the people live in a dark misery. The Americans must understand that they will be held as morally responsible before the international criminal courts for what promises to be worse than in Rwanda. We must mobilize our brothers and sisters all over the world to denounce loud and clear the injustice done to Haiti by America.
All activists should block access to the US embassy and employees. May JUSTICE be returned to the Haitians ..
Lucien Pierre
NY, USA
#10. St. Bernadette street Called "White Street" (blocked to traffic)
In a story 10/30/19 in "Haiti Liberte" titled "Today:The White Street", the street in Martissant is shown in a picture with our parish church. See "Rue Blanche"
Here are some sentences picked out to tell the story. To get the full story go to:
Haiti Liberté
<haitiliberte.com/journee-de-rue-blanche>
"Today: White Street" by Marie Laurette Numa "Monday 28 and Tuesday, October 29 have been declared "white roads". .... The demonstrators did not erect high barricades; but have completely disabled transportation... In fact, the country is completely closed until the resignation of Jovenel Moise..." according to protesters. "Some even ask, why the president does not want to resign to unblock the siutation. Another respondent: the United States has not yet been allowed to do so without Jovenel, they will lose their ally in their campaign of destabilization of the Venezuelan government to get their oil...."
Here is the full article copied from Haiti Liberte, translated by T. Luce
Here at the Champ de Mars, at Capois street in front of the Rex theater, the demonstrators did not erect high barricades; but have completely disabled transportation to this street located at few meters from the National Palace. No activity could be undertaken. In fact, the country is completely closed until the resignation of Jovenel Moise, the protesters scattered around the Champ de Mars.
Some even ask, why the president does not want to resign to unblock the situation. Another respondent: the United States has not yet been allowed to do so without Jovenel, they will lose their ally in their campaign of destabilization of the Venezuelan government to get their oil.
The people begin the 8th consecutive week of mobilization against Jovenel Moise and the transport between the Capital and the other Departments does not exist unless it is completely cut, while all schools have their doors closed.
On Monday, October 28, subcontracting workers in the streets of the country. Demonstration started in the area of Metropolitan Industrial Park (SONAPI), all workers openly show their hostility to President Jovenel Moise and also claim his resignation for Jovenel is an anti-worker.
It's our blood that the bosses suck Sonapi, with 84 Haitian dollar we are given a day that represents nothing and can not do anything with.
Consider our situation: we buy $ 30 for lunch and then we spend $ 30, and we do not pay for it. Jovenel must leave for a person in the country.
Moreover, after the success of these days, doctors, nurses, laboratory technicians, first responders, students and other health professionals will demonstrate their support for the demands of the country. who have been demanding for the immediate and unconditional resignation of President Jovenel Moses.
Rally in front of the General Hospital (State University Hospital of Haiti) " This is not just the business of health professionals. We will walk Alongside the population to consolidate the fight, " Said Dr. Jean Buteau Hénold.
In a story 10/30/19 in "Haiti Liberte" titled "Today:The White Street", the street in Martissant is shown in a picture with our parish church. See "Rue Blanche"
Here are some sentences picked out to tell the story. To get the full story go to:
Haiti Liberté
<haitiliberte.com/journee-de-rue-blanche>
"Today: White Street" by Marie Laurette Numa "Monday 28 and Tuesday, October 29 have been declared "white roads". .... The demonstrators did not erect high barricades; but have completely disabled transportation... In fact, the country is completely closed until the resignation of Jovenel Moise..." according to protesters. "Some even ask, why the president does not want to resign to unblock the siutation. Another respondent: the United States has not yet been allowed to do so without Jovenel, they will lose their ally in their campaign of destabilization of the Venezuelan government to get their oil...."
Here is the full article copied from Haiti Liberte, translated by T. Luce
Here at the Champ de Mars, at Capois street in front of the Rex theater, the demonstrators did not erect high barricades; but have completely disabled transportation to this street located at few meters from the National Palace. No activity could be undertaken. In fact, the country is completely closed until the resignation of Jovenel Moise, the protesters scattered around the Champ de Mars.
Some even ask, why the president does not want to resign to unblock the situation. Another respondent: the United States has not yet been allowed to do so without Jovenel, they will lose their ally in their campaign of destabilization of the Venezuelan government to get their oil.
The people begin the 8th consecutive week of mobilization against Jovenel Moise and the transport between the Capital and the other Departments does not exist unless it is completely cut, while all schools have their doors closed.
On Monday, October 28, subcontracting workers in the streets of the country. Demonstration started in the area of Metropolitan Industrial Park (SONAPI), all workers openly show their hostility to President Jovenel Moise and also claim his resignation for Jovenel is an anti-worker.
It's our blood that the bosses suck Sonapi, with 84 Haitian dollar we are given a day that represents nothing and can not do anything with.
Consider our situation: we buy $ 30 for lunch and then we spend $ 30, and we do not pay for it. Jovenel must leave for a person in the country.
Moreover, after the success of these days, doctors, nurses, laboratory technicians, first responders, students and other health professionals will demonstrate their support for the demands of the country. who have been demanding for the immediate and unconditional resignation of President Jovenel Moses.
Rally in front of the General Hospital (State University Hospital of Haiti) " This is not just the business of health professionals. We will walk Alongside the population to consolidate the fight, " Said Dr. Jean Buteau Hénold.
Another street in Port-Au-Prince, Haiti, blocked with fences and burning tires.. Oct. 30, 2019
#9. News On Violence in HHE Zones: Gran Ravin, Martissant
Here is a translation I made today (10.30. 2019) of a special article for us/HHE in a new online newspaper--new to me thanks to Gentilhomme--that reports of gang violence in our two neighborhoods, Gran Ravine and Martissant.
Since 2004 when Pres. Aristide, the first democratically elected president, was sent out of Haiti by the US and other countries I came to know these areas well. I worked with other human rights groups searching for dead bodies of those slain by gangs in conjunction with the police.
By the time this all ended in 2007, 8,000 people were dead. These gangs were encouraged by the removal of President Aristide to attack his supporters. The police actually worked with the gangs in the beginning until a new chief, thankfully, Mr. Mario Andresol, was named and worked to establish professional order including saving me and other human rights workers from being harmed.
Vant Bèf Info: This newspaper's name uses a Creole phrase that literally means "Beef's stomach Info", but signifies, "The Key Info"
To see the original article<https://www.vantbefinfo.com/haiti-insecurite-des-habitants-pris-dans-letau-des-gangs-armes/>
"Conflicts between armed gangs operating at the southern entrance to Port-Au-Prince continue. This Tuesday again, the cracklings of automatic weapons created a climate of tension in the neighborhoods "Ti Bwa (Small Wood) and "Gran Ravin" (Big Ravine). Plunged in anguish, residents of these localities cry for help." Translation by T. Luce
Vant Bèf Info Oct. 29, 2019
"In real war, no religion or law" for their creed, the warlords hoist their flag and impose their own rule in the 3rd constituency of Port-au-Prince.
Although for several years now, armed men have taken control of this area bordering the National Palace (street of the Republic) and the Primature (Bicentennial), this situation has taken a new proportion in recent weeks.
The deterioration of the political crisis provides a glimpse, at the least a bloody one, between the armed gangs of "Ti Bwa" and "Grand Ravin", two neighborhoods reportedly troubled on the outskirts of Port-au-Prince, the Haitian capital.
On one side, the man named "Bourgòy", claims to be leader of "Gran Ravin", and on the other side, "Chrisla", the number one of the armed civilians in "Tibwa", fight over territory control.
Heavy fire, cries of despair, the inhabitants of these neighborhoods do not know which "saint" to support according to testimonies that reached the editors of Vant Bèf Info (VBI).
In the crowd, the one named "Ti lapli" (Little Rain), also a self-proclaimed gang leader in "Gran Ravin", proposes to lead the dance on the very dangerous stretch on the national road # 2, leaving from the National Theater at the St. Bernadette Square in Martissant.
And the number of people killed, vehicles attacked or hijacked by these armed individuals, at the southern entrance to the capital, is growing.
Definitely, the 3rd District of Port-au-Prince, therefore proves a challenge for the government and police authorities in matters of security. And the inhabitants live with fear in their stomach.
Since 2004 when Pres. Aristide, the first democratically elected president, was sent out of Haiti by the US and other countries I came to know these areas well. I worked with other human rights groups searching for dead bodies of those slain by gangs in conjunction with the police.
By the time this all ended in 2007, 8,000 people were dead. These gangs were encouraged by the removal of President Aristide to attack his supporters. The police actually worked with the gangs in the beginning until a new chief, thankfully, Mr. Mario Andresol, was named and worked to establish professional order including saving me and other human rights workers from being harmed.
Vant Bèf Info: This newspaper's name uses a Creole phrase that literally means "Beef's stomach Info", but signifies, "The Key Info"
To see the original article<https://www.vantbefinfo.com/haiti-insecurite-des-habitants-pris-dans-letau-des-gangs-armes/>
"Conflicts between armed gangs operating at the southern entrance to Port-Au-Prince continue. This Tuesday again, the cracklings of automatic weapons created a climate of tension in the neighborhoods "Ti Bwa (Small Wood) and "Gran Ravin" (Big Ravine). Plunged in anguish, residents of these localities cry for help." Translation by T. Luce
Vant Bèf Info Oct. 29, 2019
"In real war, no religion or law" for their creed, the warlords hoist their flag and impose their own rule in the 3rd constituency of Port-au-Prince.
Although for several years now, armed men have taken control of this area bordering the National Palace (street of the Republic) and the Primature (Bicentennial), this situation has taken a new proportion in recent weeks.
The deterioration of the political crisis provides a glimpse, at the least a bloody one, between the armed gangs of "Ti Bwa" and "Grand Ravin", two neighborhoods reportedly troubled on the outskirts of Port-au-Prince, the Haitian capital.
On one side, the man named "Bourgòy", claims to be leader of "Gran Ravin", and on the other side, "Chrisla", the number one of the armed civilians in "Tibwa", fight over territory control.
Heavy fire, cries of despair, the inhabitants of these neighborhoods do not know which "saint" to support according to testimonies that reached the editors of Vant Bèf Info (VBI).
In the crowd, the one named "Ti lapli" (Little Rain), also a self-proclaimed gang leader in "Gran Ravin", proposes to lead the dance on the very dangerous stretch on the national road # 2, leaving from the National Theater at the St. Bernadette Square in Martissant.
And the number of people killed, vehicles attacked or hijacked by these armed individuals, at the southern entrance to the capital, is growing.
Definitely, the 3rd District of Port-au-Prince, therefore proves a challenge for the government and police authorities in matters of security. And the inhabitants live with fear in their stomach.
#8. No less than 44 Haitian journalists have been victims in recent weeks as part of or on the sidelines of the mobilization to obtain the departure of President Jovenel Moïse. The Haitian press federation calls for justice.
Port-au-Prince, October 30, 2019.- translated by T. Luce
The Federation of Haitian Press (FPH), gathering many press associations across the country, denounces the many cases of journalists beaten, injured or killed in the exercise of their rights. profession in recent weeks during protests against President Jovenel Moses.
It is not less than 44 journalists who have been victims of violence in recent weeks, according to a report released by the Federation of Haitian Press (FPH), which claims to have conducted a survey at the national level.
"The repression suffered by journalists, during the dynamics of the" Peyi lock ", marked by the paralysis of activities (Editor's note), is unacceptable, deplores the FPH which notes that some journalists were killed.
Others have been wounded or threatened with death by members of the Government or sectors of the radical opposition, "the FPH's investigation report said.
To follow up on the investigation, the FPH claims to have set up a Commission of Inquiry to document each case of a journalist victim of repression, under the direction of the lawyer Osner Fevry, who also evolves in the media.
Mr. Osner H. Fevry
According to the investigators of the FPH, a formal complaint has been formally submitted to the judicial authorities on the basis of Articles 19, 20,21, 22, 23 and 35 of the Code of Criminal Instruction to be done what is right in time and place vis-à-vis the victims of the press, continues the report.
Considering that the freedom of the Haitian press has been severely threatened lately, the Federation launches an alert to all press associations around the world and to the International Press Federation in order to obtain international solidarity in its fight for the protection of freedom of the press in Haiti.
Vant Bef Info (VBI)
The Federation of Haitian Press (FPH), gathering many press associations across the country, denounces the many cases of journalists beaten, injured or killed in the exercise of their rights. profession in recent weeks during protests against President Jovenel Moses.
It is not less than 44 journalists who have been victims of violence in recent weeks, according to a report released by the Federation of Haitian Press (FPH), which claims to have conducted a survey at the national level.
"The repression suffered by journalists, during the dynamics of the" Peyi lock ", marked by the paralysis of activities (Editor's note), is unacceptable, deplores the FPH which notes that some journalists were killed.
Others have been wounded or threatened with death by members of the Government or sectors of the radical opposition, "the FPH's investigation report said.
To follow up on the investigation, the FPH claims to have set up a Commission of Inquiry to document each case of a journalist victim of repression, under the direction of the lawyer Osner Fevry, who also evolves in the media.
Mr. Osner H. Fevry
According to the investigators of the FPH, a formal complaint has been formally submitted to the judicial authorities on the basis of Articles 19, 20,21, 22, 23 and 35 of the Code of Criminal Instruction to be done what is right in time and place vis-à-vis the victims of the press, continues the report.
Considering that the freedom of the Haitian press has been severely threatened lately, the Federation launches an alert to all press associations around the world and to the International Press Federation in order to obtain international solidarity in its fight for the protection of freedom of the press in Haiti.
Vant Bef Info (VBI)
#7. Hundreds of health professionals including doctors, nurses, paramedics, first aid workers and pharmacists among others, are currently demonstrating (13:35) Wednesday, October 30 in Port-au-Prince to demand better treatments. Most of them call for the resignation of President Jovenel Moïse.
Port-au-Prince, October 30, 2019.
translated by T. Luce
Various vital sectors continue to protest through the streets of the capital and provincial towns to, among other things, call upon the departure of President Jovenel Moïse.
After the artists, the religious, the police, the students as well as the workers of the textile cutter, it is the turn of the health staff to follow suit in order to make their demands pass through the streets of the capital ( Port au Prince).
At the initiative of doctors at the State University of Haiti (HEUH) hospital, several hundred health professionals, including nurses, paramedics and pharmacists are currently participating in a march in Port-au-Prince. -Prince for, among others, require better treatments.
Some of them also call for the "tabula rasa" (everything erased) including the resignation of President Jovenel Moïse.
The demonstration began in front of the premises of the Hospital of the State University of Haiti (HUEH) commonly known as "the general hospital", located rue Saint-Honoré.
The protesters, joined by many opposition activists, are waving their demands, including a total change in the health system.
It is abnormal, say the protesters that the sons and daughters of the country continue to die for lack of medical care or equipment.
"We also demand better working conditions and a salary adjustment," say health professionals.
The demonstrators demand the resignation of the head of state to encourage the resumption of activities. It will be a decision of wisdom, say some protesters.
The health sector should have been on the streets for a long time, say Dr Jean Hénold Buteau inviting the head of the State "to let Haiti live".
The United States reiterated Tuesday its call for dialogue between all Haitian political actors to promote a way out of the crisis.
Original article click: "Vant Bèf Info"
translated by T. Luce
Various vital sectors continue to protest through the streets of the capital and provincial towns to, among other things, call upon the departure of President Jovenel Moïse.
After the artists, the religious, the police, the students as well as the workers of the textile cutter, it is the turn of the health staff to follow suit in order to make their demands pass through the streets of the capital ( Port au Prince).
At the initiative of doctors at the State University of Haiti (HEUH) hospital, several hundred health professionals, including nurses, paramedics and pharmacists are currently participating in a march in Port-au-Prince. -Prince for, among others, require better treatments.
Some of them also call for the "tabula rasa" (everything erased) including the resignation of President Jovenel Moïse.
The demonstration began in front of the premises of the Hospital of the State University of Haiti (HUEH) commonly known as "the general hospital", located rue Saint-Honoré.
The protesters, joined by many opposition activists, are waving their demands, including a total change in the health system.
It is abnormal, say the protesters that the sons and daughters of the country continue to die for lack of medical care or equipment.
"We also demand better working conditions and a salary adjustment," say health professionals.
The demonstrators demand the resignation of the head of state to encourage the resumption of activities. It will be a decision of wisdom, say some protesters.
The health sector should have been on the streets for a long time, say Dr Jean Hénold Buteau inviting the head of the State "to let Haiti live".
The United States reiterated Tuesday its call for dialogue between all Haitian political actors to promote a way out of the crisis.
Original article click: "Vant Bèf Info"
#6. READ ABOUT MARCH LED BY THE CATHOLIC RELIGIOUS COMMUNITIES TODAY! OCT. 22 Picture above is of the protest march.
Le Nouvelliste, 10/22/19 Translated by T. Luce
Many thousands of people, Catholics, members of religious orders and others marched in the streets of Port-Au-Prince Tuesday October 22 to demand that Presdient Jovenel Moïse deals with the consequences of his inconsistencies. "There has to be some change here", was written on a banner
The protesters some with rosaries and signs got together in front of Christ-The-King church before taking Lalue St. to go to the cathedral of Port-Au-Prince where a mass was to be celebrated. In the crowd some demanded the resignation of President Jovenel Moïse while others prayed for Haiti to "be liberated."
Many thousands of people, Catholics, members of religious orders and others marched in the streets of Port-Au-Prince Tuesday October 22 to demand that Presdient Jovenel Moïse deals with the consequences of his inconsistencies. "There has to be some change here", was written on a banner
The protesters some with rosaries and signs got together in front of Christ-The-King church before taking Lalue St. to go to the cathedral of Port-Au-Prince where a mass was to be celebrated. In the crowd some demanded the resignation of President Jovenel Moïse while others prayed for Haiti to "be liberated."
Crisis: The Haitian Conference of Religious Orders closes the doors of its institutions and will walk in silence next Tuesday (translated by T. Luce)
By Jean Daniel Sénat
Posted on 2019-10-18 | The Nouvelliste
The Haitian Conference of Religious Orders, in a press note released Friday, asks leaders to take the consequences of their inconsistencies and listening to the voice of the people who is the voice of God. Considering the unprecedented humanitarian crisis in which the country is swaying, considering that this crisis is the result of a much deeper crisis affecting the very foundations of living together in political, economic, social and religious dimensions, considering the total bankruptcy of republican institutions and the responsibility of the political, intellectual, and economic elites in the deterioration of the situation, the religious challenges the conscience of everyone, especially the head of the executive so that he takes note of the the gravity of the hour and take a wise decision for Haiti accordingly.
The Haitian Conference of Religious Orders launches a vibrant call for respect for life, the integrity of the person, especially children, the sick, the elderly, the disabled, pregnant women, as well as respect for the common good and private good.
The said organization has also announced the closure of its various institutions. "Due to the insensitivity and indifference of different political actors to the future of the country, because of the general climate of insecurity, we find ourselves obliged to keep the doors of our institutions closed until that a happy ending of the crisis is found in the best time; promoting the triumph of justice, truth and reconciliation, as well as the return to normalcy of national life, " it said.
The Haitian Conference of Religious Orders promised two symbolic but significant gestures. "We will stand with the victims of this crisis that has lasted too long, by donating blood to the Haitian Red Cross, the visit of hospitals for the delivery of the product of our collection of medicines and medical equipment. In deep communion and in permanent solidarity with our suffering people, we will walk from 9 am on Tuesday, October 22, 2019, on the feast of St. John Paul II, in all major cities of the country to pray, celebrate our faith and implore the divine graces on our country and our people. We will leave in front of the church of Christ-King to go to the shrine of Our Lady of the perpetual help to Bel-Air and finish with a Eucharistic celebration to be presided over by our archbishop, "said the note bearing the signatures of Father Eric Jasmin, Father Jean Denis Saint Felix, Sister Lourdes Toussaint and Father Gilbert Peltrop.
By Jean Daniel Sénat
Posted on 2019-10-18 | The Nouvelliste
The Haitian Conference of Religious Orders, in a press note released Friday, asks leaders to take the consequences of their inconsistencies and listening to the voice of the people who is the voice of God. Considering the unprecedented humanitarian crisis in which the country is swaying, considering that this crisis is the result of a much deeper crisis affecting the very foundations of living together in political, economic, social and religious dimensions, considering the total bankruptcy of republican institutions and the responsibility of the political, intellectual, and economic elites in the deterioration of the situation, the religious challenges the conscience of everyone, especially the head of the executive so that he takes note of the the gravity of the hour and take a wise decision for Haiti accordingly.
The Haitian Conference of Religious Orders launches a vibrant call for respect for life, the integrity of the person, especially children, the sick, the elderly, the disabled, pregnant women, as well as respect for the common good and private good.
The said organization has also announced the closure of its various institutions. "Due to the insensitivity and indifference of different political actors to the future of the country, because of the general climate of insecurity, we find ourselves obliged to keep the doors of our institutions closed until that a happy ending of the crisis is found in the best time; promoting the triumph of justice, truth and reconciliation, as well as the return to normalcy of national life, " it said.
The Haitian Conference of Religious Orders promised two symbolic but significant gestures. "We will stand with the victims of this crisis that has lasted too long, by donating blood to the Haitian Red Cross, the visit of hospitals for the delivery of the product of our collection of medicines and medical equipment. In deep communion and in permanent solidarity with our suffering people, we will walk from 9 am on Tuesday, October 22, 2019, on the feast of St. John Paul II, in all major cities of the country to pray, celebrate our faith and implore the divine graces on our country and our people. We will leave in front of the church of Christ-King to go to the shrine of Our Lady of the perpetual help to Bel-Air and finish with a Eucharistic celebration to be presided over by our archbishop, "said the note bearing the signatures of Father Eric Jasmin, Father Jean Denis Saint Felix, Sister Lourdes Toussaint and Father Gilbert Peltrop.
#5. HAITIAN ARTISTS ORGANIZE MASSIVE MARCH SUNDAY, OCT.13
Absent much coverage by national press agencies, there is a fantastic amount of peaceful, massive marches pressing for Pres. Moïse's resignation. In spite of the closure of schools, businesses, and, sadly health care services. There has been violence from burning tires to actual murders, but not by the majority, on the contrary there is evidence of government sponsored violence to stop the protests. See below, "Lasalin Tragedy".
Absent much coverage by national press agencies, there is a fantastic amount of peaceful, massive marches pressing for Pres. Moïse's resignation. In spite of the closure of schools, businesses, and, sadly health care services. There has been violence from burning tires to actual murders, but not by the majority, on the contrary there is evidence of government sponsored violence to stop the protests. See below, "Lasalin Tragedy".
Read about the artists'
Thousands join protest called by Haiti’s art community
BY REBECCA BLACKWELL ASSOCIATED PRESS
OCTOBER 13, 2019 06:23 PM, UPDATED OCTOBER 13, 2019 06:24 PM
Read more here: https://www.miamiherald.com/news/business/article236151518.html#storylink=cpy
PORT-AU-PRINCE, HAITI
Thousands of Haitians joined a protest in the capital Sunday called by the art community to demand President Jovenel Moïse resign, increasing pressure on the embattled leader after nearly a month of marches that have shuttered schools and businesses.
Members of one art group participating in the march wore diapers on their heads and held empty bowls, while other protesters chanted slogans against Moïse, expressing anger over corruption, rising inflation and a lack of basic goods in the Western Hemisphere's poorest country.
"Not our president" and "We want a different Haiti," read signs in the protest in Port-au-Prince, where smoke could be seen rising from debris fires started by protesters.
In contrast to recent demonstrations, police did not intervene to stop the protesters and the march progressed without tear gas.
The demonstration comes amid a spike in violence in Haiti's capital and surrounding communities as protests that have caused nearly 20 deaths and almost 200 injuries paralyze the country. Businesses remain shuttered and an estimated 2 million children have not been able to go to school, according to the United Nations.
Earlier in the month, Moïse announced the creation of a commission charged with finding a solution to end the worsening crisis, but opposition leaders have rejected his call for dialogue and unity, and are demanding his resignation.
Many are also calling for a more in-depth investigation following a report by Haiti's Senate that accuses former top government officials from the administration of former president Michel Martelly of misusing at least $2 billion in funds tied to a Venezuelan subsidized oil program that were meant for social programs.
The report also names a company that Moïse once owned. Moïse, who was Martelly's hand-picked successor, has denied the allegations.
BY REBECCA BLACKWELL ASSOCIATED PRESS
OCTOBER 13, 2019 06:23 PM, UPDATED OCTOBER 13, 2019 06:24 PM
Read more here: https://www.miamiherald.com/news/business/article236151518.html#storylink=cpy
PORT-AU-PRINCE, HAITI
Thousands of Haitians joined a protest in the capital Sunday called by the art community to demand President Jovenel Moïse resign, increasing pressure on the embattled leader after nearly a month of marches that have shuttered schools and businesses.
Members of one art group participating in the march wore diapers on their heads and held empty bowls, while other protesters chanted slogans against Moïse, expressing anger over corruption, rising inflation and a lack of basic goods in the Western Hemisphere's poorest country.
"Not our president" and "We want a different Haiti," read signs in the protest in Port-au-Prince, where smoke could be seen rising from debris fires started by protesters.
In contrast to recent demonstrations, police did not intervene to stop the protesters and the march progressed without tear gas.
The demonstration comes amid a spike in violence in Haiti's capital and surrounding communities as protests that have caused nearly 20 deaths and almost 200 injuries paralyze the country. Businesses remain shuttered and an estimated 2 million children have not been able to go to school, according to the United Nations.
Earlier in the month, Moïse announced the creation of a commission charged with finding a solution to end the worsening crisis, but opposition leaders have rejected his call for dialogue and unity, and are demanding his resignation.
Many are also calling for a more in-depth investigation following a report by Haiti's Senate that accuses former top government officials from the administration of former president Michel Martelly of misusing at least $2 billion in funds tied to a Venezuelan subsidized oil program that were meant for social programs.
The report also names a company that Moïse once owned. Moïse, who was Martelly's hand-picked successor, has denied the allegations.
4. READ ABOUT THE LEGAL DENUNCATION OF THE "CORE GROUP"
NOTE (T. Luce): The BAI-Bureau of International Lawyers-is a long established group of lawyers in Haiti partnered with the US-IJDH (Institution for Justice and Democrcy in Haiti). I have known and worked with both groups since 2004. The "Core Group" : A group of 6 ambasadors of major countries and the EU (US, Canada, France, Brazil and Spain plus a rep each from the UN and OAS) was formed unofficially with the presence of UN troops in Haiti from the ouster of Pres. Aristide in Feb. 2004. This "Core Group" is seen as the same "imperial power" present now that has controlled Haiti since its freedom in 1804. It has interfered in many ways including determining the election of the last two presidents who are now the object of the protests over massive corruption.
TripFoumi
Rysdaël Clébert Duvelsaint 20/10/2019
The Office of International Lawyers (BAI) denounces the interference of the CORE GROUP
In an open letter dated October 16, 2019, the Office of the International Lawyers clearly expresses its
indignation at the "neo-colonial" behavior of the CORE GROUP diplomats who invite the political opposition to dialogue with Jovenel Moïse, a president he said, rejected by the Haitian people. "We want to clarify for this illegal organization that the Haitian people actually want a tandem (a collaboration). But, it must be an inter Haitian dialogue, without foreign interference", we read in the correspondence.
In its mission to defend the rights of the poor, the inalienable and imprescriptible rights inherent in the human person, the BAI believes that it has a say in the crisis that has raged in Haiti for a few months." Men and women representatives of the CORE GROUP, for over a year, the Haitian people demand a frank and sincere dialogue for an in-depth reform, a change of system to address its socio-economic problems", recalls the office at the CORE GROUP.
However, the international lawyers' office criticizes this group of diplomats for being the real obstacle to inter-Haitian dialogue. "You are the real opponents of any process of real dialogue that can lead to social peace in Haiti", denounces the BAI. Because, he continues, the CORE GROUP has taken or influenced political decisions that have repercussions of chronic political instability to date.
In its document, the BAI did not hesitate to pin the United States as one of the countries that has always endorsed, if not encouraged bad governance in the country. "We bring to the attention of members of the Core group that the crisis of the PHTK regime revealing the crisis of the system, was initiated and supervised by the United States until its collapse with Jovenel Moïse", hammers the BAI.
The bureau denounces the fact that it is the consequences of the interference of the international community that plunges the country into this societal crisis, while the core group wanted to reduce the expression of the popular Haitian ras-le-bol ("fed up") to simple quarrels between politicians who are fighting for ministerial portfolios.
The Office of International Lawyers concludes its letter by hailing the determination of the Haitian
people in their ongoing struggle to demand the resignation of the Head of State Jovenel Moïse and the change of the system, despite the repressive machine put in place by the government and supported by the men and women of the CORE GROUP.
Remember that the CORE GROUP is made up of the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General in Haiti, the Ambassadors of the United States, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Spain, the European Union and the Special Representative of the Organization of American States (OAS) in Haiti.)
TripFoumi
Rysdaël Clébert Duvelsaint 20/10/2019
The Office of International Lawyers (BAI) denounces the interference of the CORE GROUP
In an open letter dated October 16, 2019, the Office of the International Lawyers clearly expresses its
indignation at the "neo-colonial" behavior of the CORE GROUP diplomats who invite the political opposition to dialogue with Jovenel Moïse, a president he said, rejected by the Haitian people. "We want to clarify for this illegal organization that the Haitian people actually want a tandem (a collaboration). But, it must be an inter Haitian dialogue, without foreign interference", we read in the correspondence.
In its mission to defend the rights of the poor, the inalienable and imprescriptible rights inherent in the human person, the BAI believes that it has a say in the crisis that has raged in Haiti for a few months." Men and women representatives of the CORE GROUP, for over a year, the Haitian people demand a frank and sincere dialogue for an in-depth reform, a change of system to address its socio-economic problems", recalls the office at the CORE GROUP.
However, the international lawyers' office criticizes this group of diplomats for being the real obstacle to inter-Haitian dialogue. "You are the real opponents of any process of real dialogue that can lead to social peace in Haiti", denounces the BAI. Because, he continues, the CORE GROUP has taken or influenced political decisions that have repercussions of chronic political instability to date.
In its document, the BAI did not hesitate to pin the United States as one of the countries that has always endorsed, if not encouraged bad governance in the country. "We bring to the attention of members of the Core group that the crisis of the PHTK regime revealing the crisis of the system, was initiated and supervised by the United States until its collapse with Jovenel Moïse", hammers the BAI.
The bureau denounces the fact that it is the consequences of the interference of the international community that plunges the country into this societal crisis, while the core group wanted to reduce the expression of the popular Haitian ras-le-bol ("fed up") to simple quarrels between politicians who are fighting for ministerial portfolios.
The Office of International Lawyers concludes its letter by hailing the determination of the Haitian
people in their ongoing struggle to demand the resignation of the Head of State Jovenel Moïse and the change of the system, despite the repressive machine put in place by the government and supported by the men and women of the CORE GROUP.
Remember that the CORE GROUP is made up of the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General in Haiti, the Ambassadors of the United States, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Spain, the European Union and the Special Representative of the Organization of American States (OAS) in Haiti.)
#3. NOW INTO OCTOBER WITH LOCKDOWN
Today, Friday, Oct. 4 2019, the Haiti "Lockdown" which has been called again, closing businesses, schools, banks, has stopped life as usual. Here is a video of todays massive march toward the U.N. office to carry the national demand for the resignation of Pres. Jovenel Moïse.
#2 - 2019 - MASSIVE PROTESTS CONTINUE: Pres. Moïse refuses to resign; governmental violence exposed, by Tom Luce, HHE Liaison - Sept. 27, 2019
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Check out the blue/yellow flyer below that is spread around Haiti about "peaceful protests": "In every protest movement we will always unconditionally PROTECT: old people, school children, the handicapped, ambulances, firetrucks, pregnant women and babies, journalists. Now, share this message, get engaged to respect human life." Note: knowing now the involvement of the government in perpetrating violence against protesters, we should demand that they--officials and police be trained for "peaceful" protests!
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Thanks to our onsite liaison, Gentilhomme Jean-Gilles, we have pictures of the recent peaceful, massive demonstrations and some violence that have been happening as we worked with our schools to open, buying supplies for their students. Unfortunately our schools have not been able to open yet due to the country-wide "Lockdown" that has continued now demanding the resignation of Pres. Jovenel Moïse who has been accused of being involved in deep corruption.
The fact that thousands of citizens come out to peacefully protest government corruption and to demand a change is worthy of respect. Biased news agencies use "violent" in a misleading way to describe these thousands of peaceful, singing, marchers holding signs demanding justice. The government spreads the story of gang-warfare as the source of violence. I- Tom Luce - have been in several of these huge demonstrations--the last was in Dec. '15. No violence by the crowds. Even as the corruption grows worse there are still programs supporting justice far more larger than HHE. Check out CONCERNUSA (click on this title) as a group doing fantastic work in our area of Grand Ravine and neighbor to Martissant, Cité Soleil. They use the peace- with- justice model of engaging youth in positive work/play/education and gathering community groups together. HHE encourages this type of work. |
Be sure to read in the next section after our slide show, "LASALIN TRAGEDY". This is about the Haitian government involvement in violence as uncovered by the California National Lawyers Guild and Haiti Action Committee. Horrific violence against protesters in Lasalin (where Jean Bertrand Aristide was a priest and still has justice-seekers - is there a connection?) to stop the protests.
The following pictures/videos will show instances of the massive demonstrations and the violence including police using tear gas. All in Port-Au-Prince. Thank you to Gentilhomme Jean-
Gilles, our liaison on the ground.
For more details about the first pictures of a senator shooting to protect himself on Tues Sept 24th, and people fighting to get gasoline,click the following links to go to the Miami Herald report.
1. Senator Story:www.miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/world/americas/haiti/article235472942.html
2. Pres. Moïse replaces two officials named in Lasaline Massacre, but he doesn't do anything to follow up any charges, Sept. 25, Le Nouvelliste: lenouvelliste.com/article/207331/fednel-monchery-et-joseph-pierre-richard-duplan-revoques
3. Police use tear gas, live ammunition, Aljazeera, Sept. 27: www.aljazeera.com/news/2019/09/haiti-police-tear-gas-live-ammunition-protesters-190928000101679.html
3. Gas shortage: www.miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/world/americas/haiti/article235260167.html
4. "Petro Caribe"(Venezuelan oil program helping Haiti:more than 2billion US$ disappeared under government control contributing the serious gas shortages and all products needed for living. ) time.com/5609054/haiti-protests-petrocaribe/
The following pictures/videos will show instances of the massive demonstrations and the violence including police using tear gas. All in Port-Au-Prince. Thank you to Gentilhomme Jean-
Gilles, our liaison on the ground.
For more details about the first pictures of a senator shooting to protect himself on Tues Sept 24th, and people fighting to get gasoline,click the following links to go to the Miami Herald report.
1. Senator Story:www.miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/world/americas/haiti/article235472942.html
2. Pres. Moïse replaces two officials named in Lasaline Massacre, but he doesn't do anything to follow up any charges, Sept. 25, Le Nouvelliste: lenouvelliste.com/article/207331/fednel-monchery-et-joseph-pierre-richard-duplan-revoques
3. Police use tear gas, live ammunition, Aljazeera, Sept. 27: www.aljazeera.com/news/2019/09/haiti-police-tear-gas-live-ammunition-protesters-190928000101679.html
3. Gas shortage: www.miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/world/americas/haiti/article235260167.html
4. "Petro Caribe"(Venezuelan oil program helping Haiti:more than 2billion US$ disappeared under government control contributing the serious gas shortages and all products needed for living. ) time.com/5609054/haiti-protests-petrocaribe/
The YouTube video below shows the serious, widespread problem of obtaining gasoline for driving and for other basic needs. A huge government corruption-based shortage. One major corruption charge is the absconding of some 2 billion dollars USD from the Petro Caraibe program in which Venezuela gave Haiti gasoline at a low price so that it could earn more money. This money has disappeared.
Here is an excellent example of thousands of Haitians marching to protest the corruption of the Haitian government and demanding the resignation of the President Jovenel Moïse. No violence, marching peacefully. All the marchers are not singing the song you hear. What you hear is a group by the side that was recorded up close. But I-Tom Luce- can assure you that the marchers are peaceful and do also sing as I have participated in them myself in the past.
Now the situation is beyond desperate. Hopefully all powers like interfaith groups (Catholic Bishops and the Protestant Union) will continue working together as they began last year to clear the government of corruption and push for the establishment of a legitimate government.
Now the situation is beyond desperate. Hopefully all powers like interfaith groups (Catholic Bishops and the Protestant Union) will continue working together as they began last year to clear the government of corruption and push for the establishment of a legitimate government.
#1. JULY 2019 FF
LASALIN TRAGEDY: GOVERNMENT + GANGS CLICK THE ORANGE TITLE TO READ THIS NATIONAL LAWYERS GUILD REPORT ON THE TRAGEDY OF MURDERS, RAPES, DESTRUCTION FOISTED ON THIS COMMUNITY OF PROTESTERS AGAINST THE GOVERNMENT CORRUPTION. Here is a brief summary quoted from this article: "The Lasalin massacre was designed to punish and destroy a neighborhood long known as a stronghold of the grassroots Lavalas movement and center of opposition. Our investigation determined that the narrative of ‘gang warfare’ obscures the reality that the attack on Lasalin was government-orchestrated and supported, with police collaborating with and weaponizing criminal elements […] The evidence of government and paramilitary collusion is clear.” JULY 22, 2019 posted by Tom Luce
ONGOING VIOLENCE - GOVERNMENT + GANGS
Since last July the people of Haiti have been protesting the injustices plaguing the majority of Haitians caused by government corruption, e.g. $2billion disappeared from Venezuela oil sales. The "lockdown" began last summer and continued on through the beginning of 2019. New violence, massacres have begun this year with reports that it is a combination of government officials and paid gangs trying to squelch any further protests and calls for President Moïse to resign. In particular the community of La Saline suffered a serious massacre in November. See Margaret Prescod at The Real News Network. See above, "Lasalin Tragedy" for details.
APRIL 2019 FF
Bandit Arnel Joseph, the darling of real gang leaders
by A.H. Taylor, April 22, 2019 in French in Le Monde Du Sud translated by Tom Luce
At the outset, I want to point out that the real gang leaders are not those young people from disadvantaged neighborhoods who kill each other and terrorize the population. The real gang leaders are those senior state officials, those presidential advisers, senior national police officers, parliamentarians, businessmen and former president who pull the strings in the shadows. Gangs are multi-purpose tools:
Bulldozer of the National Palace
The bandits are the bulldozers of some advisers of the President of the Republic. Arnel Joseph, the most prominent bandit in recent years, has the best bosses in the place. He is the main pawn of Ardouin Zéphirin, advisor to President Jovenel Moïse, to demolish the mandate of Gédéon (Director General of the Haitian National Police). In cahoots with Vladimir Paraison (USGPN- General Security Unit of the National Palace)and Belson Soljour (DDO-Director Department of the West, Haitian National Police), Zéphirin had deprived Michel-Ange Gédéon of all the keys that unlock or lock the lawless areas of Port-au-Prince. For having been DDO (Director of the West Department, Haitian National Police) before being a Director General, Gédéon knows almost every gang in the West. But today, he does not control anything anymore. It's Zéphirin who is the big boss now. ZÉPHIRIN LÒK GÉDÉON. (Zéphirin has taken control of Gédéon.)
Ardouin Zephirin had promised Paraison and Soljour that he would have them appointed, one or the other, to the general direction of the PNH (Haitian National Police) if they ruined Gédeon's mandate. These two good gentlemen went all out to demolish Gédeon and cause his precipitous departure. But Gédéon remains in place despite the fact the situation has become catastrophic. In the meantime, he was a little relieved after misfortune happened to Belson Soljour and Vladimir Paraison, one after the other.
With Senator Gracia Delva, Ardouin used another strategy by backing up Arnel Joseph and raising him to a level to challenge Michel-Ange Gédéon from time to time. Just what Arnel does well. Arnel now has two armies (Village De Dieu and Marchand) and allies. Between his own soldiers and those of his allies, Arnel has more than 750 armed men and women under his command. Never seen in this country!
During the "lock down" in early February, the national palace had Arnel go out to accuse the opposition of complicity with a bandit wanted by the police. The palace paid dearly for this parade of the powerful gang leader in the streets of Port-au-Prince.
Engines of unfair competition
In the business class, Arnel also has patrons. Monthly, there is a contribution from some bourgeois to send money to Arnel and other gangs. Sometimes, the gangs wreak havoc because it takes time to get the orders.
The chief of these operations is Reynold Deeb, the great smuggler and big boss of Ronald Decembre (MEF-Ministry of Economy and Finance) and customs. If a trader has not contributed, and Deeb is the one who writes the receipt, his goods cannot be cleared. It's the gangs that give the go-ahead to clear customs. Even if they are in full operation, they do not disturb the affairs of Deeb, Alan Zureik, Sheriff Abdallah and company. The containers of these patrons are inviolable; they pay dearly for this privilege.
When Reynold Deeb and his allies finish clearing and delivering their goods, they order the gangs to spread terror so that Bongù’s (commercial food company) food import competitors cannot clear their goods or take them out of the port. This is totally unfair competition.
Bigio (Gilbert, billionaire Haitian) also plays the game at La Saline. His reasoning is to disrupt the port of the capital to divert more traffic to his at Lafito (largest, deepest port in Haiti at Lafiteau, first Panamax port in Haiti, 12 miles north of Port-Au-Prince.)
Babies of Michel Martelly
Former President Martelly is also influential with powerful gangs. It is he, Roro Nelson and Laurent Lamothe (with the help of his protégé Gary Bodeau) who sent some heavy weapons to Village de Dieu, La Saline, Delmas 2, Grand Ravine, etc. They are the ones who attracted the gangs with these large sums of money.
On July 6, 7 and 8, 2018 it was these gangs who secured the properties of Martelly who left the country because of emergency by helicopter. For example, it was the gang of Saline who had gone up to Pétion-ville and watched over Olivier Martelly's gym. Bougòy watched his residence on the coast of St Marc. More than 6 gangs have been deployed to protect the property of Martelly and Gregory.
This is a trend: all officials and some of these businessmen prefer to be secured by bandits than by police. Parliamentarians are the champions of this phenomenon. Of course, bandits understand each other; one knows the tricks of others. As long as these officials come to power, the police will always be in this state.
Drug dealers use bandits too. It is not by chance that Martelly's entourage is responsible for part of the payroll of Arnel Joseph's soldiers, who each receive 75,000 Gourdes as a monthly salary and fees ranging from 15,000 to 50,000 Gourdes depending on the rank of the soldier. And the two armies of Arnel, Village of God and Marchand, have more than 400 men and women of all functions: soldiers with weapons, messengers, antennas, agents of counter-espionage, informing police, etc.
An Arnel soldier gets paid 3 times more than a policeman! This is Haiti Chérie.
Guess why it is the relatives of Martelly like Hervé Fourcand who are responsible for paying the armies of Arnel?
Banditry is profitable
Car thefts are very profitable for businessmen who buy them from the hands of these bandits and resell them to Mafiosos in the Dominican Republic.
When a bandit steals a motorcycle, the gang leader pays him and the latter will sell the bike to a businessman who resells the engine in the Dominican Republic to make engines for boats.
The latest episodes in Artibonite are disturbing. The control of Arnel Joseph seems to have escaped Ardouin Zephirin. Arnel is aware of the plan of Jovenel Moses and Ardouin Zephirin to kill him once a new director general of police is installed in August, to show that it is Gédéon who was not up to it.
Arnel is informed and stands out more and more at the national palace to get closer to Reynold Deeb who intends to use him against his cousin and his opponent Renigald Boulos who has presidential ambitions. And Martelly is also in the game. Michel Martelly believes that if he drops Arnel Joseph, he can be protected by Reginald Boulos who also has his gangs in Cité Soleil. The gangs of Boulos were silent only for a month. They have begun to be heard in the City. Martelly feels threatened by Boulos and his gangs of Cité Soleil; he is looking to Arnel who has some leadership on all the other gangs in the metropolitan area to neutralize Boulos.
After having been supported by Jovenel Moïse and Ardouin Zéphirin for two years, Arnel Joseph is now a strong supporter of Michel Martelly, Roro Nelson, Michel Clerie, Reynold Deeb, Alain Zureik, Sheriff Abdallah and Olivier Barreau. Jovenel and Zephirin had used it to harm Gédéon and were planning to assassinate him in September. But Martelly and Deeb want to protect him to stop the Boulos machine which has already taken on its cruising speed towards the National Palace.
The country is screwed up, the state is gangsterized at the highest level. It is a rogue state that uses armed bandits to stop political or economic adversaries. Arnel promises to denounce Jovenel Moise, Ardouin Zephirin and Carl Henry Boucher who want to kill him a week after taking office of the next DG who will be a favorite of Jovenel. They intend to make a big political blow with the head of Arnel after using it for two years against Gédéon.
This country is screwed. If the youth does not wake up, the next few years will be even darker. Arnel will mark the history of this country forever. Never has a gang leader been so powerful. Never has a gang leader been solicited so much by the national palace, parliament and businessmen.
A. H. Taylor
Source: information collected from combined sources (a friend of the DPP + prisoners, former gang members).
by A.H. Taylor, April 22, 2019 in French in Le Monde Du Sud translated by Tom Luce
At the outset, I want to point out that the real gang leaders are not those young people from disadvantaged neighborhoods who kill each other and terrorize the population. The real gang leaders are those senior state officials, those presidential advisers, senior national police officers, parliamentarians, businessmen and former president who pull the strings in the shadows. Gangs are multi-purpose tools:
Bulldozer of the National Palace
The bandits are the bulldozers of some advisers of the President of the Republic. Arnel Joseph, the most prominent bandit in recent years, has the best bosses in the place. He is the main pawn of Ardouin Zéphirin, advisor to President Jovenel Moïse, to demolish the mandate of Gédéon (Director General of the Haitian National Police). In cahoots with Vladimir Paraison (USGPN- General Security Unit of the National Palace)and Belson Soljour (DDO-Director Department of the West, Haitian National Police), Zéphirin had deprived Michel-Ange Gédéon of all the keys that unlock or lock the lawless areas of Port-au-Prince. For having been DDO (Director of the West Department, Haitian National Police) before being a Director General, Gédéon knows almost every gang in the West. But today, he does not control anything anymore. It's Zéphirin who is the big boss now. ZÉPHIRIN LÒK GÉDÉON. (Zéphirin has taken control of Gédéon.)
Ardouin Zephirin had promised Paraison and Soljour that he would have them appointed, one or the other, to the general direction of the PNH (Haitian National Police) if they ruined Gédeon's mandate. These two good gentlemen went all out to demolish Gédeon and cause his precipitous departure. But Gédéon remains in place despite the fact the situation has become catastrophic. In the meantime, he was a little relieved after misfortune happened to Belson Soljour and Vladimir Paraison, one after the other.
With Senator Gracia Delva, Ardouin used another strategy by backing up Arnel Joseph and raising him to a level to challenge Michel-Ange Gédéon from time to time. Just what Arnel does well. Arnel now has two armies (Village De Dieu and Marchand) and allies. Between his own soldiers and those of his allies, Arnel has more than 750 armed men and women under his command. Never seen in this country!
During the "lock down" in early February, the national palace had Arnel go out to accuse the opposition of complicity with a bandit wanted by the police. The palace paid dearly for this parade of the powerful gang leader in the streets of Port-au-Prince.
Engines of unfair competition
In the business class, Arnel also has patrons. Monthly, there is a contribution from some bourgeois to send money to Arnel and other gangs. Sometimes, the gangs wreak havoc because it takes time to get the orders.
The chief of these operations is Reynold Deeb, the great smuggler and big boss of Ronald Decembre (MEF-Ministry of Economy and Finance) and customs. If a trader has not contributed, and Deeb is the one who writes the receipt, his goods cannot be cleared. It's the gangs that give the go-ahead to clear customs. Even if they are in full operation, they do not disturb the affairs of Deeb, Alan Zureik, Sheriff Abdallah and company. The containers of these patrons are inviolable; they pay dearly for this privilege.
When Reynold Deeb and his allies finish clearing and delivering their goods, they order the gangs to spread terror so that Bongù’s (commercial food company) food import competitors cannot clear their goods or take them out of the port. This is totally unfair competition.
Bigio (Gilbert, billionaire Haitian) also plays the game at La Saline. His reasoning is to disrupt the port of the capital to divert more traffic to his at Lafito (largest, deepest port in Haiti at Lafiteau, first Panamax port in Haiti, 12 miles north of Port-Au-Prince.)
Babies of Michel Martelly
Former President Martelly is also influential with powerful gangs. It is he, Roro Nelson and Laurent Lamothe (with the help of his protégé Gary Bodeau) who sent some heavy weapons to Village de Dieu, La Saline, Delmas 2, Grand Ravine, etc. They are the ones who attracted the gangs with these large sums of money.
On July 6, 7 and 8, 2018 it was these gangs who secured the properties of Martelly who left the country because of emergency by helicopter. For example, it was the gang of Saline who had gone up to Pétion-ville and watched over Olivier Martelly's gym. Bougòy watched his residence on the coast of St Marc. More than 6 gangs have been deployed to protect the property of Martelly and Gregory.
This is a trend: all officials and some of these businessmen prefer to be secured by bandits than by police. Parliamentarians are the champions of this phenomenon. Of course, bandits understand each other; one knows the tricks of others. As long as these officials come to power, the police will always be in this state.
Drug dealers use bandits too. It is not by chance that Martelly's entourage is responsible for part of the payroll of Arnel Joseph's soldiers, who each receive 75,000 Gourdes as a monthly salary and fees ranging from 15,000 to 50,000 Gourdes depending on the rank of the soldier. And the two armies of Arnel, Village of God and Marchand, have more than 400 men and women of all functions: soldiers with weapons, messengers, antennas, agents of counter-espionage, informing police, etc.
An Arnel soldier gets paid 3 times more than a policeman! This is Haiti Chérie.
Guess why it is the relatives of Martelly like Hervé Fourcand who are responsible for paying the armies of Arnel?
Banditry is profitable
Car thefts are very profitable for businessmen who buy them from the hands of these bandits and resell them to Mafiosos in the Dominican Republic.
When a bandit steals a motorcycle, the gang leader pays him and the latter will sell the bike to a businessman who resells the engine in the Dominican Republic to make engines for boats.
The latest episodes in Artibonite are disturbing. The control of Arnel Joseph seems to have escaped Ardouin Zephirin. Arnel is aware of the plan of Jovenel Moses and Ardouin Zephirin to kill him once a new director general of police is installed in August, to show that it is Gédéon who was not up to it.
Arnel is informed and stands out more and more at the national palace to get closer to Reynold Deeb who intends to use him against his cousin and his opponent Renigald Boulos who has presidential ambitions. And Martelly is also in the game. Michel Martelly believes that if he drops Arnel Joseph, he can be protected by Reginald Boulos who also has his gangs in Cité Soleil. The gangs of Boulos were silent only for a month. They have begun to be heard in the City. Martelly feels threatened by Boulos and his gangs of Cité Soleil; he is looking to Arnel who has some leadership on all the other gangs in the metropolitan area to neutralize Boulos.
After having been supported by Jovenel Moïse and Ardouin Zéphirin for two years, Arnel Joseph is now a strong supporter of Michel Martelly, Roro Nelson, Michel Clerie, Reynold Deeb, Alain Zureik, Sheriff Abdallah and Olivier Barreau. Jovenel and Zephirin had used it to harm Gédéon and were planning to assassinate him in September. But Martelly and Deeb want to protect him to stop the Boulos machine which has already taken on its cruising speed towards the National Palace.
The country is screwed up, the state is gangsterized at the highest level. It is a rogue state that uses armed bandits to stop political or economic adversaries. Arnel promises to denounce Jovenel Moise, Ardouin Zephirin and Carl Henry Boucher who want to kill him a week after taking office of the next DG who will be a favorite of Jovenel. They intend to make a big political blow with the head of Arnel after using it for two years against Gédéon.
This country is screwed. If the youth does not wake up, the next few years will be even darker. Arnel will mark the history of this country forever. Never has a gang leader been so powerful. Never has a gang leader been solicited so much by the national palace, parliament and businessmen.
A. H. Taylor
Source: information collected from combined sources (a friend of the DPP + prisoners, former gang members).
WARNING: MANY PICTURES IN THE FOLLOWING SLIDE SHOW ARE OF INNOCENT PEOPLE KILLED IN ATTACKS BY GANGS IN SECTIONS OF PORT-AU-PRINCE --CARREFOUR-FEUILLES, DELMAS. THE FIRST PICTURE IS OF THE POLICE STATION IN THE NORTH, ARTIBONITE, WHERE ARNEL JOSEPH (SEE ARTICLE ABOVE ABOUT HIM) AND HIS FIGHTERS ATTACKED THE POLICE TO LET OUT PRISONERS. THE SECOND PICTURE IS OF ARNEL JOSEPH AND SOME OF HIS MEN. ARNEL JOSEPH TERRITORY IS VILLAGE DE DIEU, A SECTION CLOSE TO OUR SISTER PARISH, ST. BERNADETTE, WHERE MUCH VIOLENCE HAS OCCURRED IN THE LAST SIX MONTHS. OUR SOURCES TELL US THAT THE GANGS HAVE EXPENSIVE AND HIGH LEVEL WEAPONS. THIS IS BECAUSE OF THE MONEY THEY RECEIVE FROM THE AUTHORITY FIGURES TALKED ABOUT IN THE ARTICLE AT THE BEGINNING OF THIS PAGE.
ATTENTION! THE FOLLOWING VIDEOS CONTAIN VIOLENCE BY GANGSTERS. VIDEO
#1, IS OF THE POLICE STATION IN ARTIBONITE, NORTH OF HAITI WHICH WAS ATTACKED BY ARNEL JOSEPH AND HIS MEN TO LET PRISONERS ESCAPE. NOTICE THE BULLET HOLES ALL OVER THE FRONT WALLS.
#2 IS A NEWS CONFERENCE BY A SENATOR TALKING ABOUT THE GANGS AND GOVERNMENT WORKING TOGETHER. HE HAS NUMEROUS AND LENGTHY PHONE CALLS TAPED LINKING BANDIT ARNEL JOSEPH WITH SENATOR GRACIA DELVA
#3 AND #4 SHOW GANGSTERS FIGHTING.
#5 IS ANOTHER VIOLENT VIDEO SHOWING DEAD BODIES IN THE CARREFOUR FEUILLE SECTION OF P-A-P. THE GANG LEADER, TIJE, WAS JUST KILLED ON FRIDAY MAY 3.
#1, IS OF THE POLICE STATION IN ARTIBONITE, NORTH OF HAITI WHICH WAS ATTACKED BY ARNEL JOSEPH AND HIS MEN TO LET PRISONERS ESCAPE. NOTICE THE BULLET HOLES ALL OVER THE FRONT WALLS.
#2 IS A NEWS CONFERENCE BY A SENATOR TALKING ABOUT THE GANGS AND GOVERNMENT WORKING TOGETHER. HE HAS NUMEROUS AND LENGTHY PHONE CALLS TAPED LINKING BANDIT ARNEL JOSEPH WITH SENATOR GRACIA DELVA
#3 AND #4 SHOW GANGSTERS FIGHTING.
#5 IS ANOTHER VIOLENT VIDEO SHOWING DEAD BODIES IN THE CARREFOUR FEUILLE SECTION OF P-A-P. THE GANG LEADER, TIJE, WAS JUST KILLED ON FRIDAY MAY 3.
