In a harrowing incident that underscores the escalating violence in Haiti, Prime Minister Garry Conille escaped unharmed after gangs opened fire near a hospital he was visiting in Port-au-Prince. The attack occurred on Monday as the prime minister was leaving the establishment, located in a gang-controlled area of the capital. A government source, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the incident to AFP.
Garry Conille, who assumed office in June, was visiting the hospital to assess ongoing efforts to restore stability in the troubled nation. As he exited the building, gunmen began firing automatic weapons, forcing Conille and his entourage to seek immediate cover. Thanks to the swift response of Haitian police and members of a UN-backed Kenyan security force, the prime minister was able to flee the area without injury. Video footage from the scene shows several police officers scrambling to take cover as gunfire erupted.
The hospital building where the attack took place had been under gang control from the end of February until early July. A successful police operation had recently reclaimed the facility, marking a significant, albeit temporary, victory against the criminal groups that dominate much of Port-au-Prince. According to local reports, these gangs control approximately 80 percent of the city, subjecting residents to a constant threat of murder, rape, and kidnapping for ransom.
The presence of Kenyan police officers in Haiti is part of an international effort to stabilize the country, which has been beset by political, social, and economic turmoil. Hundreds of Kenyan police officers have been deployed to Port-au-Prince, working alongside Haitian authorities to combat the rampant gang violence that has plagued the nation.
Prime Minister Conille has made it a priority to restore the authority of the state and bring order to Haiti. He came to office as part of an interim government formed after the resignation of his predecessor, Ariel Henry. Henry, who was unelected and widely unpopular, stepped down amid growing unrest and calls for change.
Despite the daunting challenges, Conille remains committed to his mission. His administration has been working tirelessly to regain control of key areas in Port-au-Prince and reestablish government authority. The attack on Monday highlights the formidable obstacles that lie ahead.
The incident has drawn international attention to the dire situation in Haiti. The United Nations and various international partners have expressed their support for Conille’s efforts to stabilize the country. The deployment of Kenyan police officers is just one aspect of a broader strategy to provide security and aid to the Haitian people.
However, the path to stability is fraught with danger. The gangs that control much of Port-au-Prince are well-armed and deeply entrenched. They have shown a willingness to use extreme violence to maintain their grip on power. The attack on Prime Minister Conille serves as a stark reminder of the perilous environment in which the government and its international partners are operating.
As Haiti continues to grapple with its myriad challenges, the resilience and determination of its leaders and people remain crucial. Prime Minister Conille’s narrow escape from Monday’s attack underscores the urgent need for continued international support and a concerted effort to restore peace and stability to the nation. The coming months will be critical in determining whether Haiti can overcome the scourge of gang violence and build a brighter future for its citizens.
