Ariel Henry, a well-known doctor and controversial political figure, stepped down from his position as prime minister of Haiti after failing to control the violence and disorder in his country. Henry, who gained recognition as a neurologist in Haiti after studying medicine in France, was chosen by President Moise for the role just two days before Moise was assassinated by a group of Colombian mercenaries. Despite being installed as prime minister amidst the chaos, Henry was unable to officially assume office due to the tragic events that unfolded.
Prior to his appointment as prime minister, Henry had held various government positions, including interior minister and minister of social affairs and labor. However, his tenure in these roles was short-lived, and he withdrew from the political scene for over five years.
When President Moise selected him as the seventh prime minister, the country was already grappling with instability. The investigation into Moise’s assassination further eroded trust in Henry’s leadership. It was revealed that he had engaged in multiple phone conversations with one of the main suspects on the night of the murder.
Additionally, in early 2022, CNN aired a recording in which a judge accused Henry of orchestrating and financing the attack. Henry dismissed these allegations as a distraction, claiming that he could not recall the details of every conversation he had that day.
As civil society and the political opposition struggled to find a viable alternative, Henry remained in control of the government. However, his influence was limited in the face of the escalating crisis that plagued the country. Even before Moise’s death, criminal gangs had already established a stronghold over Haiti, exacerbating the challenges faced by Henry’s administration.
As per the agreement reached in December 2022, Henry was supposed to organize elections at some point in 2023 and then hand over power to the newly elected officials on February 7, 2024. However, the elections have not been held, and Henry has refused to step down, worsening the crisis and casting doubt on his legitimacy.
