New Haitian Prime Minister Announces New Ministerial Cabinet Amid Gangs’ Expansion

On Friday, November 15, the Prime Minister’s Office officially announced the composition of the ministerial cabinet under newly appointed Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé. The government, comprised of 18 ministers and 1 secretary of state, reflects a strategic blend of experienced leaders and new faces, aimed at addressing the critical issues facing Haiti. The initiative is also aligned with collaborative efforts involving the Transitional Presidential Council (TPC) to ensure a stable and transparent governance framework. 

Composition of the Cabinet 

New Ministers 

1. Paul Antoine Bien-Aimé: Minister of the Interior and Local Authorities 

2. Patrick Pelissier: Minister of Justice and Public Security 

3. Jean Harvel Victor Jean-Baptiste: Minister of Foreign Affairs and Religious Affairs 

4. J.E Kathia Verdier: Minister of Haitians Living Abroad 

5. Alfred Metellus: Minister of Economy and Finance 

6. Erick Dessources: Minister of Tourism 

7. Jean Michel Moïse: Minister of Defense 

8. Dr. Duckenson Lorthe Blema: Minister of Public Health and Population 

9. Pédrica Saint-Jean: Minister of Women’s Affairs and Women’s Rights 

10. Patrick Delatour: Minister of Culture and Communication 

Returning Ministers 

1. Marie Ketleen Florestal: Minister of Planning and External Cooperation 

2. Raphaël Hosty: Minister of Public Works, Transportation, and Communications 

3. Vernet Joseph: Minister of Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Rural Development 

4. James Monazard: Minister of Commerce and Industry 

5. Moïse Jean-Pierre: Minister of the Environment 

6. Georges Wilbert Franck: Minister of Social Affairs and Labor 

7. Niola Devalis Octavius: Minister of Youth, Sports, and Civic Action 

8. Augustin Antoine: Minister of National Education and Vocational Training 

Secretary of State 

• Patrick Sully W. Joseph: Secretary of State for Local Authorities 

A Government Facing Major Challenges 

The announcement of the new government comes at a critical time, as the nation grapples with escalating insecurity and preparations for long-delayed elections. The cabinet’s composition reflects a deliberate effort to balance continuity with innovation, entrusting this team with the responsibility of crafting and implementing policies to restore stability and promote national development. 

Prime Minister Fils-Aimé is betting on this diverse group of leaders to revitalize governmental action in the wake of numerous challenges  that Haiti faces.  

Escalation of Violence and Security Issues 

This announcement coincided with a surge in violence in the Solino neighborhood, where residents were displaced from their homes in broad daylight. The deteriorating security situation has also affected international travel, with several airlines—including Spirit Airlines, American Airlines, and JetBlue—suspending flights to Haiti after gangs fired at planes earlier in the week, despite Haiti’s security forces, including the Haitian National Police (HNP), the Armed Forces (FAd’H), and the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, have reported regaining control of areas near Toussaint Louverture International Airport. 

Looking Ahead 

As Haiti navigates this tumultuous period, the new ministerial cabinet will play a critical role in steering the nation toward peace & stability and organizing elections. The coming weeks and months will reveal whether this team can effectively address the pressing issues and lay the groundwork for a brighter future just before the holiday season.