The Gangsters and Rebels Fighting for Power in Haiti

The Gangsters and Rebels Fighting for Power in Haiti

In the midst of political unrest in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, a range of formidable figures have emerged, contributing to the volatility that led to the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry. Among them are a former police officer who conducts press conferences with high-powered weaponry and a young criminal known for his appearances in rap videos and involvement in arms and drug trafficking. These individuals are part of the complex web of gang leaders accused of exacerbating the crisis in Haiti’s capital.

Another key player in the mix is a former rebel, recently released from a U.S. prison, who has expressed intentions to run for the presidency, further complicating the political landscape as the country awaits the formation of a transitional government.

Jimmy ‘Barbecue’ Chérizier

Jimmy ‘Barbecue’ Chérizier, a 47-year-old former police officer, has become the most visible gang leader, despite not being the most powerful. As the head of an alliance known as G9, Chérizier has positioned himself as a vocal critic of Ariel Henry, demanding his resignation since the prime minister took office. Portraying himself as a defender of the common people against the oligarchy, Chérizier’s actions, including a notorious massacre in 2018 and a blockade of the Varreux fuel terminal in 2021, have had dire consequences for Haiti’s poorest, leading to severe shortages of water, food, and fuel.

Chérizier’s calls for a more equitable system contrast sharply with the reality of the turmoil and hardship inflicted by armed groups under his influence. Experts warn that any alliance he claims to have forged among Port-au-Prince’s gangs is likely to be fragile and short-lived.

Johnson André, known as Izo, is another gang leader gaining traction in Haiti. Unlike Chérizier, Izo rose through the gang ranks to lead the Vilaj de Dye – 5 Segonn gang. While both leaders share a penchant for the limelight, Izo prefers to express himself through social media and rap videos, which have attracted a substantial following. Despite this, it’s been alleged that; Izo’s gang is involved in severe criminal activities, including rape, kidnappings, and drug trafficking, underlining the ruthless nature of his leadership.

Guy Philippe, a former police officer turned rebel leader, is a notable figure in Haiti’s tumultuous political scene. Having played a pivotal role in the 2004 coup against President Bertrand Aristide and later being arrested on drug-trafficking charges in the U.S., Philippe has returned to Haiti with ambitions of becoming president. His recent calls for rebellion against Henry and aspirations for leadership draw attention to the complex interplay of political and gang-related dynamics in Haiti.

As Haiti confronts this period of intense gang violence and a humanitarian crisis affecting millions, the power struggles among its gang leaders and political figures remain a critical challenge to the nation’s stability and future.