Haiti Establishes Transitional Council Amid Crisis to Choose New Leaders

A decree in Haiti's gazette Le Moniteur announced the formation of a transitional council on April 12. The council is tasked with appointing a new inclusive prime minister and government as soon as possible. The announcement was delayed due to political squabbling, and it is hoped that this step will help establish conditions for the deployment of a UN-approved international police force. Prime Minister Ariel Henry had previously announced his intention to resign once the council was established. The council has been tasked with restoring law and order in Haiti, where armed gangs have caused havoc in the capital. The council will exercise certain presidential powers until a new president-elect is inaugurated.