Haiti’s Justice Ministry warns of threats against Prime Minister and Cabinet

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) — Haiti’s Justice Ministry called Tuesday for increased security for Prime Minister Garry Conille and other Cabinet officials in response to unspecified threats that they could be the target of malicious parties.

The ministry did not provide details, saying only that it had “consistent and persistent” information that senior officials could be targeted by anonymous actors intent on sowing “unrest and panic.” in the country.” The ministry urged police and judicial authorities to take “appropriate measures” to guarantee the safety of civil servants.

Neither judicial authorities nor the prime minister’s office responded to messages for comment.

The statement comes as gang violence intensifies in some neighborhoods of the Haitian capital that are not yet under gang control, just months after the start of a UN-backed mission led by Kenyan police. More than 4,000 people were left homeless during recent attacks targeting communities in Port-au-Prince, including Solino and Tabarre 27.

The escalation of violence began almost a week ago and is blamed on a coalition of gangs called “Viv Ansanm”, responsible for large-scale attacks that began in February. targeting critical government infrastructure e. These attacks ultimately led to the resignation of former Prime Minister Ariel Henry.

The Justice Ministry’s warning raised concerns given that former President Jovenel Moïse was assassinated at his private residence in July 2021.