PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) — A transitional council tasked with bringing political stability to Haiti was installed Thursday in the capital of this Caribbean country, which is marred by gang violence and soaring hunger and poverty.
The freshly sworn-in council will appoint a new prime minister and Cabinet, and create a road map to eventually hold long-awaited general elections. Its mandate expires Feb. 7, 2026, when a new president would be sworn in.
The council is made up of eight men and one woman. Seven members have voting powers.
Here’s a glimpse at who they are:
Smith Agustin — Former ambassador to the Dominican Republic, legal expert and sociologist. He is tied to the EDE/RED political party. He recently replaced former nominee Dominique Dupuy, a UNESCO ambassador, who resigned following political attacks and death threats.
Dr. Louis Gérald Gilles — The former senator will be the representative of the signatories of the Dec. 21 agreement within the council. That group is associated with outgoing prime minister Ariel Henry. Gilles is linked to the New Orientation United to Free Haiti party.
Controversy over spiked antifascist speech dominates Italy's Liberation Day anniversary
Move over Fashion Royalty, REAL Royalty has been on view at the catwalk shows
Kate will 'lean on' her trusted nanny Maria Borrallo as she recovers from abdominal surgery
Net neutrality restored as FCC votes to regulate internet providers
Doctor reveals shocking theory behind why you suddenly need to use the toilet during shopping trips
Māori wards ultimatum for councils as coalition government imposes referendums
Meghan Markle purchased pair of £1990 diamond earrings from Dragons' Den hopefuls
LIZ JONES: How the past few days have shown us the depth of Kate and Charles's special relationship
King Charles's call for all able
China's Bronze Age relics enchant American audience
Kings and royal princes were the rock stars of their day