Authorities announced on Wednesday, March 20,. 2024, an extension of the curfew in Ouest, one of Haiti’s ten departments, until March 23. In the south-central department, which houses the jurisdictional seat of the capital city, gang violence persists with an alarming escalation. Consequently, daily life in Port-au-Prince has been severely disrupted due to the escalating violence and unrest.
The upheaval has resulted in the loss of dozens of lives and the displacement of thousands, who are seeking refuge wherever available. According to Wilner Bossou, a reporter from China Global Television Network (CGTN), some individuals compelled to flee their homes resort to seeking shelter in public schools. Moreover, the main hospital in Port-au-Prince faces significant operational challenges, with a scarcity of medical personnel hindering patient care.
The ongoing violence has exacerbated Haiti’s political crisis, prompting the Prime Minister to commit to resignation, a demand emphasized by the gangs. Since late February, armed groups have targeted public institutions, including police stations and the international airport, which remains non-operational. During the imposed curfew and state of emergency in early March, law enforcement authorities have been instructed to utilize all lawful means to maintain order.
Fuel supply disruptions have further compounded the crisis, as armed groups have impeded fuel trucks from accessing the crucial Varreux fuel terminal in the capital, resulting in deserted gas stations. Bossou highlighted the pervasive gas shortage, compelling residents to stock up on fuel in cans to mitigate the scarcity. The situation in Port-au-Prince remains dire, with incessant heavy attacks and gunfire being a daily occurrence.
Since the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in July 2021, the influence of gangs and criminal factions has strengthened. Despite the Prime Minister’s commitment to transition power on February 7, the failure to conduct elections has fueled social unrest, exacerbating the already precarious situation in Haiti.
