Haiti's Presidential Council Dissolves Amid Political Chaos and Gang Violence

February 7, 2026
Haiti's Presidential Council Dissolves Amid Political Chaos and Gang Violence
  • Analysts say the future security mission will depend on establishing a credible, legitimate governing framework to attract ongoing international backing.

  • Haiti’s nine-member presidential council, backed by the United States, dissolved on February 7, 2026 after nearly two years in power amid ongoing political instability and rampant gang violence in Port-au-Prince.

  • Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé remained in office as the council dissolved, with plans for a new general election in the coming decade and efforts to shift governance toward security and electoral reforms.

  • Negotiations are underway over who will replace the council as a multinational security mission recalibrates its role, emphasizing that any new governing authority must demonstrate legitimacy to win international support.

  • Earlier accusations of corruption within the council had surfaced, including bribery allegations against several members in 2024.

  • Public sentiment, voiced by street vendors like André Joseph, remains a call for new leadership capable of delivering stability and security.

  • Outgoing president Laurent Saint-Cyr said the council had paved the way for governance focused on security and electoral issues, while Fils-Aimé signaled he would address the nation later.

  • In the lead-up to the dissolution, some influential council members had moved to oust Fils-Aimé, triggering U.S. objections and resulting in visa sanctions on several council members and a cabinet minister.

  • The United States signaled its willingness to influence Haiti’s transition by deploying a warship and Coast Guard boats near Port-au-Prince amid gang control of the capital.

  • Observers doubt that general elections or a runoff will occur this year given persistent violence and instability, even as tentative dates were floated and international partners seek clarity on governance.

  • The council was established in April 2024 after the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse to stabilize the country, but it struggled with corruption allegations and limited effectiveness against entrenched gangs.

  • As the council ended, displaced Haitians and residents expressed disappointment and renewed demand for a more effective, legitimate government.

Summary based on 4 sources


Get a daily email with more World News stories

More Stories