Protests in Cap-Haïtien: City Paralyzed as Government Dispatches Emergency Mission

The northern capital of Cap-Haïtien remains in a state of total paralysis this Thursday following a second day of intense civil unrest. Citizens have blocked major arteries to protest the government’s failure to maintain basic urban infrastructure and sanitation services.

Civil Unrest and Roadblocks in the North Department

Since Wednesday morning, a massive citizen mobilization has gripped the city. Residents in key neighborhoods, including Madeline and Vertières, have used burning tires and heavy debris to seal off main roads.

The protesters are demanding immediate action on three critical fronts:

Comprehensive urban sanitation and trash removal.

The dredging of drainage canals and sewers to prevent seasonal flooding.

Urgent road repairs for the crumbling infrastructure in the North Department.

This movement has brought daily life to a standstill. Local authorities confirmed that schools remain closed and commercial activities are largely suspended due to the lack of security and transport.

Government Response: High-Level Ministerial Delegation

In a rapid response to the escalating crisis, the central government has authorized an emergency ministerial mission to the region. The delegation arrived in the North today to evaluate the local situation and implement a priority intervention plan.

The high-level commission includes the following officials:

The Minister of the Interior and Territorial Collectivities: Tasked with restoring public order and coordinating with local mayors.

The Minister of the Environment: Focused on the urgent cleaning of canals and waste management.

The Minister of Public Works (MTPTC): Assigned to evaluate and launch immediate road rehabilitation projects.

What’s Next for the “City of Christophe”?

The government’s goal is to launch “High-Intensity Labor” (HIMO) projects within the next 48 hours. These projects aim to provide immediate jobs to locals while addressing the sanitation demands that triggered the protests.

However, protest leaders on the ground warn that the barricades will remain until heavy machinery is seen working in the streets.

Rédactrice Claire