CARICOM backs new interim leadership in Haiti

CARICOM Heads of Government say they are closely monitoring developments in Haiti after the country’s Transitional Presidential Council stepped down at the end of its two-year tenure, handing governing responsibility to Prime Minister Didier Fils Aimé and the Council of Ministers.

In a statement issued Tuesday from the CARICOM Secretariat in Guyana, regional leaders said the new governing arrangement is expected to be a short interim period focused on improving security, advancing preparations for national elections and supporting Haiti’s social and economic recovery.

The regional bloc stressed the urgent need for a stable political process in Haiti but reiterated that any path forward must remain Haitian-led and Haitian-owned. CARICOM said this approach requires overcoming political divisions and ensuring the structured inclusion of citizens’ views through consultation and dialogue with their representatives and civil society.

Regional leaders also underscored the importance of improving the security environment, noting that humanitarian conditions across the country remain severe. They called on regional and international partners to help ease the hardships faced by millions of Haitians, while backing priorities outlined by Prime Minister Fils Aimé to address security and dignity simultaneously.

CARICOM said it supports the prime minister’s immediate plan to provide urgent food, healthcare and shelter to the most vulnerable populations as part of stabilisation efforts.

The community reaffirmed its commitment to Haiti, pledging continued engagement through its Eminent Persons Group and ongoing outreach to key stakeholders. CARICOM also reiterated that Haiti remains an integral member of the regional body.

Heads of Government said they are looking forward to early engagement with Fils Aimé at the 50th Regular Meeting of the CARICOM Conference of Heads of Government, scheduled for February 24–27 in St Kitts and Nevis.