Sat Feb 07 23:08:30 UTC 2026: Headline: US-Backed Prime Minister Fils-Aime Takes Power in Haiti Amidst Political Turmoil and Gang Violence

The Story:
Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council has transferred power to US-backed Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aime after almost two years of chaotic governance. This period was characterized by rampant gang violence leading to thousands of deaths. The power transfer occurred on Saturday amidst tight security, reflecting the country’s unstable political climate. This move comes after failed attempts by council members to oust Fils-Aime in late January, leading to the United States announcing visa revocations for council members and a cabinet minister.

Key Points:

  • Alix Didier Fils-Aime is now the only politician with executive power in Haiti.
  • The Transitional Presidential Council was established in 2024 following the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in 2021.
  • The council was marked by infighting, corruption allegations, and failure to curb gang violence.
  • The US deployed a warship and two coastguard boats near Port-au-Prince just before the council dissolved.
  • US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stressed the importance of Fils-Aime’s tenure to combat gangs and stabilize Haiti.
  • The council removed Prime Minister Garry Conille just six months after being formed, selecting Fils-Aime as his replacement.
  • Gangs killed nearly 6,000 people in Haiti last year, according to the United Nations.
  • Approximately 1.4 million Haitians have been displaced by the violence.

Key Takeaways:

  • The US is heavily involved in Haitian politics, supporting Fils-Aime’s leadership and deterring attempts to remove him.
  • Gang violence remains a critical issue, displacing a large portion of the population.
  • The Transitional Presidential Council failed to establish stability or organize elections, leading to its dissolution.
  • Fils-Aime faces the difficult task of organizing elections, which have been postponed multiple times.
  • International security forces are slowly deploying to Haiti, but their impact remains to be seen.

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