Haiti – Thousands of demonstrators in the streets, barricades of burning tires, car wrecks, branches and stones, but also shooting or tear gas. The poorest country in the Western Hemisphere has undergone three-day demonstrations that paralyzed authorities, schools, shops and transport, especially in larger cities (Thursday, February 7th – Saturday, February 9th). Protests were also held in Gonaïves. According to the latest information, at least two people died in the protests…

Haitians protest against corruption, price increases, uncertainty, and the government that runs the state poorly. They demand the resignation of President Jovenel Moïs, who has been head of Haiti since February 2017. The protests have lasted for months, with more and more people dying. Even Gonaïves reported victims after this weekend, where Czech donors have been helping with the Archdiocesan Charity Olomouc for many years. “The protesters threatened private banks and the police station. They also tried to light other buildings in Gonaïves. Two young protesters reportedly died and five injured were taken to the hospital,” says Haiti Libre.

Sister Renee Quadros, who is leading with the Sisters of St. Joseph’s medical center and school in Gonaïves. According to her, even more people died during the demonstrations. “During the three-day demonstrations, it was bad for us in Gonaïves. There were shootings and three people were killed. We were not leaving the house and the school was closed for three days of unrest,” says Nurse Renee.

Photos of barricaded streets from Haiti:

We are thinking with our partners who are trying to help the needy in difficult circumstances, and also with Haitians who face hunger, drinking water or violence on a daily basis. We wish Haiti to calm down as soon as possible so that all the people there have enough of what is needed to live in order to move in the right direction…

Archdiocesan Caritas Olomouc