Garry Conille, an experienced international aid official, has been appointed as the new prime minister of Haiti by a Presidential Transition Council. His task is to lead the country out of its current crisis until elections for a new president can be held.
Mr. Conille, who is fluent in English, French, and Creole, brings a wealth of experience to the role with a 25-year career working for the United Nations and other aid agencies. He previously served as prime minister of Haiti over a decade ago during another period of crisis following the devastating 2010 earthquake.
However, Mr. Conille will face challenges as he returns to Haiti after spending many years outside the country. His political skills will be put to the test in a highly volatile situation, with armed gangs controlling large parts of the capital, Port-au-Prince.
Despite the challenges, Mr. Conille will not have to navigate political battles with Haiti’s Parliament, which has been vacant for months due to the country’s inability to hold elections amid the violence and turmoil.
The appointment of Mr. Conille comes as a U.N.-backed security mission, led by Kenyan police, is set to begin operations in Haiti to help restore order to a country plagued by gang violence. The mission is funded in part by a commitment of $300 million from the Biden administration.
Mr. Conille will work alongside a transition council appointed to steer the country until elections can be held and a new president takes office, planned for early 2026. Haiti has been without a president since the assassination of Jovenel Moïse in July 2021.
With his extensive experience in international aid and public health, Mr. Conille is seen as a safe choice to lead Haiti during this critical time. His appointment signals a new chapter for the country as it works towards stability and recovery.
