Statement by Prime Minister Andrew Holness on the Assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse
By: , July 7, 2021
Photo: Official
Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, ON, PC, MPThe Full Story
It is with regret that the Government and people of Jamaica have learned the shocking and tragic news of the assassination of the President of the Republic of Haiti, His Excellency Jovenel Moïse at his home in Port-au-Prince on 7th July 2021.
We express our deepest condolences to the family of President Moïse. Jamaica condemns this unspeakable occurrence and stands in solidarity and support with our neighbour and fellow CARICOM country Haiti and its people, including members of the Haitian Diaspora in Jamaica.
As one of our closest neighbours, the protracted political situation in Haiti has been deeply concerning to Jamaica and the wider Caribbean Community, and understandably has been a focal point of discussion by CARICOM Heads of Government. At the Forty-Second Conference of the Heads of Government, which was concluded only last evening, Heads of Government explored additional mechanisms and assistance that the Caribbean Community could provide to Haiti in overcoming challenges so as to restore an environment of peace and stability.
Furthermore, at a Special Meeting today, Heads of Government reaffirmed their willingness to to engage stakeholders to facilitate an agreed solution to the current crisis.
In addition, we note that the international community, through the Organization of American States, had undertaken a Good Offices Mission to Haiti from 8th to 10th June 2021, on the invitation of President Moïse. This Good Office Mission, which included CARICOM representation, was an inclusive fact- finding gesture aimed at initiating dialogue among key stakeholders such as the government, opposition, business, religious and civil society in order to find a viable solution to the ongoing political situation in Haiti.
As the people of Haiti come to terms with the unfolding developments, we urge the relevant stakeholders to remain calm and promote a sense of peace, to protect and preserve lives and livelihoods, as well as the maintenance of law and order.