In a tragic turn of events, a gang attack disrupted the long-awaited reopening of the General Hospital in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on Tuesday, leading to the deaths of two journalists and wounding several others. The hospital, located across from the national palace, had been under gang control earlier this year. Authorities had promised to reclaim and reopen the facility, but the event turned violent when suspected gang members opened fire on journalists covering the occasion.
Former Prime Minister Garry Conille had visited the General Hospital in July after authorities regained control from gangs that had forced its closure. Despite the government's efforts to improve conditions at the hospital, gang violence remains a significant threat. The attack on Christmas Eve underscored the volatile situation in Haiti, where street gangs control approximately 85% of the capital.
The Viv Ansanm coalition of gangs is blamed for the attack. Johnson "Izo" André, a notorious gang leader, claimed responsibility on social media for orchestrating the assault. The assault resulted in the deaths of local journalists Markenzy Nathoux and Jimmy Jean. Additionally, an unspecified number of reporters suffered injuries.
The hospital's poor conditions have exacerbated health risks, with over 84,000 suspected cholera cases across the country. The impending rainy season threatens to increase the spread of water-borne diseases, further complicating Haiti's already strained health care system.
The gravity of the situation prompted Leslie Voltaire to express condolences and a firm stance against impunity.
“I send my sympathies to the people who were victims, the national police, and the journalists,” said Leslie Voltaire.
He further assured that
“this crime is not going to go unpunished.”
Haiti's health care system struggles under the pressure of continued gang violence, which has also led to deteriorating conditions in camps and makeshift settlements. This year's unrest has already claimed two local journalists' lives, including radio reporter Dumesky Kersaint and journalist Ricot Jean.
