A controversial urban redevelopment initiative in northern Haiti has triggered significant economic and social concerns among business leaders. On January 9, 2026, municipal authorities launched “Operation Sidewalk Reclamation” along Cap-Haïtien’s strategic boulevard, a prime tourist and commercial corridor. Under the direction of Marc Merzius Présumé, Departmental Delegate of the North, and with Mayor Angie Bell present, the operation resulted in the complete demolition of at least 17 buildings and commercial structures deemed to be encroaching on public land.
The North Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI Nord) has issued a formal statement expressing profound concern regarding the execution methodology of the demolition campaign. While explicitly refraining from challenging the legal basis of the operation, the Chamber’s President, Steve A. Mathieu, criticized the absence of reasonable notice, transparent planning, and proper consultation with affected businesses.
According to the Chamber’s declaration, previous discussions with authorities had addressed general urban concerns in Cap-Haïtien but never specifically outlined demolition plans of this scale. The business organization condemned what it characterized as a “hasty, haphazard, and unilateral approach” that failed to consider the substantial economic, social, and human consequences for local enterprises and families.
The statement further denounced reported incidents of power abuse and violence against individuals, including women attempting to exercise their right to peaceful protest. The Chamber expressed solidarity with victims while reiterating its commitment to participatory urban development processes that balance public interest, heritage preservation, and economic protection through dialogue and transparent governance.