Canada condemns the 'horrific' wave of gang violence in Haiti

Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly said Friday that Canada strongly condemns a new wave of “horrific violence” committed by gangs in Haiti.

Gang violence in the Caribbean country has increased in recent weeks and according to the UN, gangs now control 85 percent of the capital Port-au-Prince.

Kenya is leading a multinational security mission to restore order after mobs ousted the former prime minister in targeted attacks earlier this year.

A transition council now leads the country, with the aim of holding elections next year.

“This politically motivated violence is clearly aimed at undermining the transition process, which is crucial for the restoration of security and democratic institutions,” Joly said in a media statement.

“This should not be tolerated. It is essential that all stakeholders continue to adhere to the agreed transition process.”

Haiti’s ambassador to the UN, Antonio Rodrigue, told the Security Council on Monday that more support is urgently needed to enable secure elections. He told the UN that Haiti is now looking to upgrade its security mission to a full peacekeeping force.

Canada has contributed $86 million to support the country since February.

“Canada reiterates its support for the transition process and remains committed to a coordinated response, with a focus on Haitian-led solutions, together with international partners,” Joly said.

People raise their arms as they walk past a police station in Pont-Sonde, Haiti, on Monday, Oct. 7, 2024, days after a mob attacked the city. (AP/Odelyn Joseph)

“It is imperative that the international community support the Haitian National Police and the Multilateral Security Assistance Mission in their efforts to prevent further atrocities.”

Earlier this month, a gang attack on Port Sonde resulted in the deaths of 115 civilians. Thousands of people were driven from their homes, the Security Council heard.

Rodrigue told the Security Council that Haitian police and multinational forces have launched sustained operations against the gangs over the past three weeks, especially in Port-au-Prince, but tangible results have been slow to emerge.