Members of Haiti's Transitional Presidential Council (TPC) have announced their intention to remove Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aime from his post. This significant development on Friday directly contradicts the recommendations of the United States, which had stressed the Prime Minister's vital role in combating escalating gang violence and restoring national stability. The TPC, a nine-member body established to guide Haiti towards elections following President Jovenel Moise's assassination in 2021, is asserting its executive authority to appoint and dismiss the head of government.
Council member Leslie Voltaire explained that the TPC, having appointed Mr. Fils-Aime in November 2024, is now responsible for naming a new prime minister and government. They aim to establish a new leadership structure, including a fresh cabinet and presidential figure, within a proposed 30-day period. However, this ambitious plan is contingent upon its official publication in the government gazette to acquire legal validity and be enforceable.
This latest political manoeuvre highlights a pronounced divergence between the TPC and Washington. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had previously underscored the importance of Mr. Fils-Aime's continued tenure, emphasizing his critical contribution to the fight against pervasive gang influence. The council's apparent disregard for these diplomatic overtures raises serious questions regarding the future trajectory of US-Haiti relations and the effectiveness of international pressure on the nation's governance.
The TPC's own internal dynamics and the impending expiration of its mandate on February 7th cast a shadow over the legitimacy of any new appointments. Haiti has been experiencing a profound governance vacuum and widespread insecurity, leading to repeated postponements of democratic elections. The persistent threat of gang violence has demonstrably hindered any semblance of normalcy and democratic progress within the nation. The council's assertion of supreme executive authority is being tested as it navigates this complex national crisis, with the potential for further instability looming.