Haiti PM names cabinet amid gang challenge

Prime Minister Ariel Henry swore in his new Cabinet on Wednesday, more than four months after he assumed leadership of Haiti following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse.

The appointments come as Haiti struggles with a rise in violence, kidnappings and ongoing fuel shortages blamed on powerful gangs that have blocked gas distribution terminals.

He appointed nine ministers to a variety of positions, including foreign affairs, economy, justice, education and health.

Among those appointed is Jean Victor Jeneus, who will replace Claude Joseph as minister of foreign affairs and worship. Joseph briefly served as interim president after Moïse was killed at his private home in the pre-dawn hours of July 7.

Henry condemned the ongoing violence and called on criminals to lay down their weapons, or otherwise "be neutralized."

Haiti is struggling with a spike in gang-related kidnappings, including the October 16 abduction of 17 missionaries with ties to an Ohio-based religious organization.

Two of them were released on Sunday, although no further details were provided.

Henry also talked about the fuel shortages and spiraling prices, saying the government has invested more than $300,000 to subsidize gas but that it cannot sustain that situation much longer.

In addition, Henry urged the new health minister to launch a campaign and encourage more people to get vaccinated against COVID-19.

IMAGE: AP