In a move that has added further turbulence to Haiti’s already fragile political landscape, the Transitional Council overseeing the country’s democratic transition has dismissed interim Prime Minister Garry Conille. Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, a businessman with a background in Haiti’s private sector, has been appointed to take his place, according to a decree signed on Sunday. The decision is expected to be formalized on Monday, as reported by a government source to The Associated Press.
The dismissal highlights the ongoing struggle to restore democratic order in Haiti, a nation facing severe instability due to a surge in gang violence and the absence of elections for several years. Conille, a seasoned civil servant and former United Nations official, held the office for only six months. During his brief tenure, he faced significant opposition from the council itself, which has been beset by internal conflicts and accusations of corruption.
Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, Conille’s replacement, is a prominent figure in Haiti’s business community, having previously served as president of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and studied at Boston University. He was initially considered for the role before Conille’s appointment and is seen as a private-sector candidate. In 2015, he ran for a Senate seat but was unsuccessful.
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The Transitional Presidential Council, established in April with a mandate to stabilize Haiti and guide it towards democratic elections, has encountered numerous setbacks. Efforts by the Organization of American States to mediate internal council disputes fell short last week, leaving the council in disarray.
Allegations of corruption have further undermined its credibility; three members—Smith Augustin, Emmanuel Vertilaire, and Louis Gérald Gilles—were recently accused of soliciting bribes in exchange for securing their positions. These members, along with others on the council, signed the decree to remove Conille, with only Edgard Leblanc Fils abstaining.
The council’s actions have sparked criticism within Haiti, with some questioning its authority to remove Conille. Former Justice Minister Bernard Gousse publicly denounced the dismissal as “illegal,” citing the council’s alleged overreach and the shadow of corruption surrounding its decision.
The transition process remains fragile, with Haiti’s leadership seeking stability amid significant challenges. The council’s decision to replace Conille may further erode public trust, particularly as Haiti grapples with the complexities of restoring democratic governance and tackling pervasive violence.
