US backs Haitian prime minister

The United States has formally expressed its support for Haitian Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimè as he assumes interim leadership following the conclusion of the Provisional Transitional Council’s (CPT) mandate. Washington’s endorsement came through an official statement released by the U.S. Embassy in Haiti, acknowledging the peaceful transfer of authority from CPT coordinator Laurent Saint-Cyr to Prime Minister Fils-Aimé and his ministerial council.

The American government emphasized its readiness to collaborate with Haiti’s interim administration to address the nation’s pressing stabilization needs. The statement highlighted Washington’s recognition of the profound responsibility facing Haitian authorities during this critical juncture, while underscoring the essential role of domestic efforts in restoring security and advancing the aspirations of the Haitian population.

Citing Secretary Rubio’s previous remarks, the communication stressed that sustainable progress in Haiti hinges upon responsible governance, enhanced security conditions, and robust international partnerships that respect Haitian sovereignty. The United States reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside Haitian leadership and regional allies to support stabilization initiatives.

The CPT, established in April 2024 following Prime Minister Ariel Henry’s resignation, was tasked with restoring political stability, addressing severe security challenges posed by armed gangs, and facilitating a democratic transition. The nine-member council was specifically mandated to appoint new governmental leadership and oversee preparations for national elections scheduled for early 2026—marking the first electoral processes since April 2024.

However, the council’s tenure concluded last Saturday amid internal conflicts, governance deficiencies, operational paralysis, and widespread allegations of corruption, influence peddling, and alleged collusion with armed factions. While Haitian civil and political leaders broadly agreed on the CPT’s dissolution, consensus regarding its replacement structure remains elusive.

In his departure statement, Saint-Cyr urged stakeholders to prioritize national security over personal interests, confirming that ministerial leadership under Prime Minister Fils-Aimé would assume control. Meanwhile, Fils-Aimé addressed the nation over the weekend, invoking Haiti’s historical commitment to republican values and popular sovereignty while emphasizing the necessity of national unity and state authority. He acknowledged the CPT’s efforts during nearly two years of extreme complexity while recognizing that the transition process remains incomplete due to persistent insecurity and electoral timeline adjustments.