Haiti gang leader killed – In Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince, tensions escalated on Thursday as attacks, including a shooting that claimed the life of a gang leader, unfolded amidst ongoing political instability. The violence coincided with progress towards finalizing a transition council aimed at assuming presidential powers amid the absence of a functioning government. The shooting, which resulted in the death of gang leader Ernst Julme, known as Ti Greg, marked a setback for gangs attempting to assert control over the city. Julme, a member of the “Viv Ansanm” alliance led by gang leader Jimmy “Barbeque” Cherizier, recently escaped from Haiti’s largest prison in a mass jailbreak. Haiti Security Situation While political groups in Haiti moved closer to selecting members for the transitional council, concerns persisted over the country’s security situation. The council, tasked with appointing a replacement for Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who resigned due to gang violence, received cautious optimism from the international community. The transition plan, brokered by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in Jamaica, faced challenges as some Haitian political factions struggled to unify behind one representative. Despite initial resistance and criticism, progress was made towards establishing the nine-member council. Port-au-Prince Current Situation However, violence continued to grip Port-au-Prince, with heavy gunfire reported near the National Palace and shootings in the Petion-Ville suburb. The resurgence of a civilian vigilante movement, known as Bwa Kale, added to the turmoil, resulting in the killing and burning of suspected gang members. The absence of state intervention exacerbated the conflict, leaving civilians vulnerable to armed criminal groups vying for territorial control. Efforts to deploy an international security mission, requested by Henry in 2022, remained stalled, further hindering efforts to restore stability. The United Nations emphasized the urgent need for international intervention to address Haiti’s political and security crises. Additionally, calls were made for the protection of civilians and the restoration of democratic institutions. Amid growing insecurity, foreign governments, including Canada and the United States, took measures to evacuate their citizens from Haiti. Canada’s armed forces supported contingency planning, while the U.S. facilitated the departure of American citizens from various cities in Haiti. As Haiti grapples with escalating violence and political uncertainty, international assistance and concerted efforts to address the root causes of instability are essential for restoring peace and stability to the beleaguered nation. Contact TrendBlend Hub: Website:  – Click HereWhatsApp | Call: +254 743 149 267 | + 254 738 352 258Email Address: info@trendblend.co.ke | sales@trendblend.co.keFollow our IG: @TrendBlendHubKe