Haiti continues to face significant challenges as it navigates a complex landscape of violence, historical commemoration, and developmental progress. In Kenscoff, Mayor Jean Massillon reported that armed bandits have killed between 400 and 450 people since January 2025 while attempting to seize control of the town. The violence has also resulted in extensive material damage, further exacerbating the region’s instability. Meanwhile, Cap-Haïtien Cathedral hosted a solemn Te Deum on October 17, 2025, to mark the 219th anniversary of the assassination of Jean-Jacques Dessalines, Haiti’s independence hero and national founder. The ceremony, filled with prayers and songs, honored Dessalines’ legacy of justice, sovereignty, and unity. In a significant political development, the Haitian government has decided to abandon the proposed constitutional referendum following a technical opinion from the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP). The unspent funds will be redirected toward organizing the next elections. On the economic front, Haiti secured a $110 million investment from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to boost agricultural productivity and modernize transportation infrastructure. This funding is part of the 2025 Agenda and 2026 Plan, aimed at strengthening economic ties and technical cooperation. Additionally, a strategic meeting was held between Haitian leaders and security forces to address the country’s security situation and coordinate efforts to protect the population and advance the electoral process. International support was also evident, with the French and U.S. embassies expressing solidarity with Haiti and honoring Dessalines’ legacy.
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Everything President Luis Abinader will do this Saturday
President Luis Abinader is set to embark on a highly active day this Saturday, balancing solemn duties with celebratory events across Santo Domingo and Bonao. The day begins with the President attending the funeral of Vicente Sánchez Baret, a prominent political leader, at the National Congress in the National District at 10:30 am. Following this, at 12:00 pm, President Abinader will engage with young students from both public and private schools at the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo’s Bonao Campus. At 1:30 pm, he will officiate the inauguration of the Padre José Salvador Fernández High School in Sabana del Puerto, Bonao. The day concludes with the President leading the inauguration of the Villa Mella Sports Center at 3:30 pm in Santo Domingo North, located near Central Park on Salomé Ureña Street.
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The eyes of the world are on the Dominican Republic: Why?
Francisco “Paco” Pérez, President of the Official Chamber of Commerce of Spain in the Dominican Republic (CAMACOESRD), highlighted on Wednesday that the Dominican Republic has become a focal point for global attention. Pérez attributed this growing interest to the nation’s remarkable economic, social, and political stability, which stands out in an era of global polarization. He emphasized that these attributes provide investors with a sense of security, ensuring that their investments are well-protected. Additionally, the country’s robust legal framework and attractive profitability further distinguish it as a prime destination for foreign investment. Pérez remarked, “These are the greatest attributes this country has for investment.”
Despite its strengths, Pérez acknowledged areas for improvement, particularly in infrastructure development. He stressed the importance of enhancing road networks, water supply systems, and transportation to sustain the country’s growth trajectory. “The government shares this vision, and progress is underway,” he added.
Iban Campo Urriza, Secretary of the Official Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the Dominican Republic and Director of Llorente y Cuenca (LLYC), emphasized the critical role of education in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. Campo Urriza highlighted the need for skills development in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and closer alignment with technological advancements. He noted that while the Dominican Republic has made strides, there is still work to be done in equipping its workforce with the necessary technical expertise. “Innovation and entrepreneurship demand specific skills and technological proficiency, which the country must continue to address,” he said.
Campo Urriza also pointed to initiatives aimed at training local talent, including collaborations with international experts. He expressed confidence that strengthening these efforts would solidify the Dominican Republic’s position as a regional leader in Central America and the Caribbean. “Investing in talent development and specialized qualifications will make a significant difference in maintaining our competitive edge,” he concluded.
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Culture : Growing interest in Vietnam for the history, culture and values of the Haitian people
In a remarkable display of cultural diplomacy, the Embassy of Haiti in Vietnam recently hosted a group of students from the Vietnam Academy of Diplomacy, fostering a deeper understanding of Haiti’s rich history and cultural heritage. The event, led by Chargé d’Affaires Darlier Dorval and Counselor Léa Perceval, featured an engaging presentation on the Haitian Revolution and its enduring impact on global diplomacy, particularly within the Global South. This initiative underscored Haiti’s pivotal role as the first independent Black Republic and its influence on liberation movements worldwide. The visit also coincided with the commemoration of the Battle of Vertières, a cornerstone of Haiti’s independence struggle, inspiring several Vietnamese students to focus their graduation theses on Haiti. Adding a flavorful dimension to the exchange, Haitian chefs Lalaroque Bichat and Madame Amenda Merilien guided students in preparing Joumou soup, a symbol of Haitian freedom. The event further enriched cultural ties with a kompa dance workshop and a showcase of Haitian music, blending culinary and artistic traditions to celebrate shared values and stories.
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Quickscans onthullen grote misstanden: diepgaander onderzoek en externe audits nodig
During a press conference held on Friday, the government revealed that preliminary quickscans conducted across various ministries have uncovered alarming irregularities. The initial findings, described as deeply concerning by attending ministers, have prompted an immediate escalation to external financial audits and comprehensive investigations.
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Chief Justice warns new lawyers of tougher discipline rules
In a significant move to uphold the integrity of the legal profession, Chief Justice Leslie Haynes announced on Friday that stricter penalties are being introduced for lawyers who fail to meet their professional obligations. Speaking at a special sitting for 34 newly admitted attorneys-at-law at the No. 1 Supreme Court, Haynes revealed that a draft amendment to the Legal Professions Act is currently under review. This update aims to overhaul the disciplinary framework governing legal practitioners.
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Politic : Ceremony of the 219th anniversary of the assassination of Dessalines (video)
On October 17, 2025, Haiti solemnly commemorated the 219th anniversary of the assassination of General Jean-Jacques Dessalines, a pivotal figure in the nation’s history and its first emperor. The ceremony, held at the Villa d’Accueil, was presided over by Laurent Saint Cyr, the Pro tempore President and Coordinator of the Transitional Council. Attendees included Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, members of the government, judiciary, military, and diplomatic corps, underscoring the event’s national significance. In his address, Saint Cyr honored Dessalines’ legacy, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to Haiti’s freedom and dignity. He highlighted the current challenges facing the nation, urging unity and resilience in the face of threats to its sovereignty. Saint Cyr also stressed the importance of restoring security as a precursor to organizing free and credible elections, a crucial step for Haiti’s future. Prime Minister Fils-Aimé echoed these sentiments, paying homage to Dessalines as the ‘Hero of Heroes’ and reaffirming the state’s dedication to the ideals of liberty, unity, and national sovereignty. The ceremony served as a powerful reminder of Haiti’s enduring spirit and its commitment to the legacy of its founding father, Jean-Jacques Dessalines.
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FLASH : The USA sanctions two major Haitian terrorists
In a significant move to combat terrorism, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced sanctions on October 17, 2025, targeting two prominent Haitian gang leaders, Dimitri Herard and Kempes Sanon. Both individuals are linked to the notorious Haitian gang coalition ‘Viv Ansanm,’ which was designated as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist Organization (SDGT) and a Foreign Terrorist Organization by the U.S. Department of State on May 2, 2025. The sanctions were enacted under Executive Order 13224, which aims to disrupt terrorist activities by targeting their supporters and financiers. Dimitri Herard, a former Haitian police officer and ex-Commander-in-Chief of the General Security Unit of the National Palace, has been implicated in the 2021 assassination of former President Jovenel Moïse. Since his escape from prison in 2024, Herard has allegedly provided training and weapons to ‘Viv Ansanm,’ fueling coordinated attacks against Haitian state institutions. Kempes Sanon, leader of the Bel Air gang—a key member of the ‘Viv Ansanm’ alliance—has been accused of orchestrating civilian killings, extortion, and kidnappings. The OFAC sanctions freeze all U.S.-based assets of the designated individuals and prohibit American entities from engaging in transactions with them. Violations could result in severe civil or criminal penalties. Additionally, foreign financial institutions facilitating transactions for these individuals risk secondary sanctions, including restrictions on U.S. correspondent accounts. This action underscores the U.S. government’s commitment to curbing terrorism and stabilizing Haiti’s fragile political landscape.
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Marshall: Sound judgement, not technology, makes good lawyers
The legal community in Barbados is on the cusp of implementing new guidelines to regulate the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in legal practice. This development comes as the island’s judiciary seeks to address concerns raised by Chief Justice Leslie Haynes and Attorney General Dale Marshall regarding the potential misuse of AI, which could undermine professional competence.
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Spanish businessmen highlight the advantages and challenges of investing in the Dominican Republic.
The Dominican Republic has solidified its position as a global investment hub, attracting significant Spanish investment totaling $1.126 billion, second only to the United States. This surge is attributed to the nation’s robust legal security, macroeconomic stability, and attractive incentives, as highlighted by executives from the Official Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the Dominican Republic (CAMACOESRD) and the Dominican Week in Spain (SEDE) platform during a recent luncheon hosted by the Corripio Communications Group. Francisco (Paco) Pérez, president of CAMACOESRD, emphasized the country’s exceptional economic, social, and political stability, which stands out in an era of global polarization. He noted that Spanish investment has diversified beyond tourism into strategic sectors like renewable energy, infrastructure, and communications. José Maldonado, vice president of SEDE, underscored the role of the Renewable Energy Law and the double taxation treaty between the two nations in driving investment. However, challenges remain, particularly in improving service infrastructure and education to meet the demands of new investments. Pérez and other leaders stressed the importance of maintaining tax incentives to sustain the Dominican Republic’s regional leadership, citing competition from countries like Jamaica and Costa Rica. In a bid to further promote the country, Spanish business leaders announced the upcoming SEDE event, scheduled for March 27-31 in Madrid and Asturias, which will showcase the Dominican Republic’s banking system, digital advancements, and creative industries.