December 23, 2024
In a video published on social media, Haitian Prime Minister Dr. Garry Conille addressed the nation on Wednesday evening July 17, 2024, announcing that his government has declared a state of security emergency in 14 communes of the West and Artibonite departments, areas controlled by gangs, as part of new security measures.
“The country’s authorities have declared a state of emergency in all municipalities controlled by gangs,” announced Prime Minister Conille. “The state of emergency will give the government the tools and instruments necessary to restore state authority,” he added.
In general, a state of emergency is a situation in which a government is authorized to implement policies that it would not normally be authorized to implement, for the safety and protection of its citizens. This often involves the application of a restrictive regime where even fundamental freedoms, such as free movement and freedom of the press, can be limited.
Among other directives shared, Dr. Conille also asked law enforcement agencies to immediately begin operations that will bring peace to the country. With this in mind, the head of government urged journalists on social networks to avoid covering areas of operation so as not to disclose information concerning the position of law enforcement and the progress of operations.
He also asked the population to remain vigilant but calm. New security measures will be announced via official social networks, and a national insecurity awareness campaign will soon be launched.
Instructions were given to the police, army, and newly arrived security support personnel to gradually deploy in the targeted areas according to the established plan. Prime Minister Conille reiterated that they were going to seize all areas controlled by the gangs “house by house, neighborhood by neighborhood, and city by city.”
Finally, he issued a stern warning to the gangs, asking them to lay down their arms and recognize the authority of the state.