In Haiti, a new leader has been appointed amid gang threats

• Loran Saint-Cyr has become the new head of the transitional council of Haiti.
• Threats from gangs are intensifying, including from the leader of "Barbecue."
• The country is facing serious challenges in the security sector.

On September 7, 2025, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Loran Saint-Cyr was appointed as the new head of the transitional presidential council. His appointment comes amid a registered situation in the country, where armed gangs control nearly 90% of the capital's territory.

Saint-Cyr, who previously worked in an insurance company, emphasized the need for action to stabilize the situation in the country, which is experiencing one of the worst crises in its history. "This is not a time for pretty speeches, this is a time to act," he said during his inauguration.

Threats from gang leaders

Following his appointment, the leader of the "Viv Ansanm" gang, Jimmy Cherizier, known by the nickname "Barbecue," announced plans to attack the government. In a video, posted on social media, he urged residents to give his group free passage through the districts to reach the government office.

"The people of Haiti, protect yourselves and help us ... in the fight for the liberation of the country," Cherizier added, armed with an automatic weapon.

The OAS Mission, led by the Kenyan police, reported the possibility of impending attacks due to increased patrols in vulnerable areas.

Order Restoration

Saint-Cyr highlighted the importance of the private sector for the country's economy and stated that security is his priority. He called on international partners to provide more resources to support the mission, which is facing a shortage of personnel and funding.

Moreover, 58 organizations accused the new government of not protecting women's and girls' rights in the context of rising violence.

Several people expressed their concern about the participation of the private sector in governing the country, accusing elites of funding gangs.

The situation in the country remains tense, as violence continues, and the government structure remains fragile. It is reported that from January to June 2025, as a result of the violence, at least 1,520 people were killed.

Tags: Politics/Crime