Haiti: Families Demand Release of Kidnapped Journalists Osnel Espérance and Junior Célestin

Families and media demand immediate release

The families of journalists Osnel Espérance and Junior Célestin, along with representatives of Radio Uni FM and Radio Télévision Megastar, called on Monday, March 16, 2026, for their immediate release.

During a press conference held in Port-au-Prince, relatives and media officials condemned the kidnapping of the two reporters, which occurred on March 13, and appealed to Haitian authorities and the international community for urgent action.

Three days after their disappearance, the journalists’ families say they remain deeply worried and without information about their fate.

According to relatives, the last contact with Osnel Espérance occurred on the day of the abduction. Since then, no communication has reportedly been established with the kidnappers.

Kidnapped while reporting near Champ de Mars

Representatives of Radio Uni FM stated during the press conference that the two journalists were working in the vicinity of Champ de Mars when the incident occurred.

They were reportedly conducting a report as part of their professional duties when they were abducted.

A representative of the station said the priority now is to obtain proof that the journalists are alive and receive information about their health condition.

The station also urged the involvement of international institutions, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH), to support Haitian authorities in resolving the case.

Authorities urged to take action

Media representatives called on Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, Prime Minister of Haiti and president of the Superior Council of the National Police, to publicly address the case and take measures to locate the journalists.

They also appealed to Paul Antoine Bien-Aimé, Minister of the Interior, and André Jonas Vladimir Paraison, Director General of the Haitian National Police (PNH), urging them to take concrete steps to clarify the circumstances of the kidnapping.

Media outlets recall previous attacks against journalists

During the press conference, representatives of Radio Uni FM recalled that the station had previously faced a similar incident involving journalist Roudy Éveillard, who was allegedly kidnapped by individuals wearing uniforms.

A representative of Radio Télévision Megastar described Junior Célestin as the co-host of the program Bonjour Haïti, noting that the journalist who usually informs the public now finds himself at the center of the news.

The station also cited several incidents affecting its operations in recent years, including a fire that destroyed its premises in mid-November 2024 and an attack on journalist Justin Jocelin in December 2024.

Jocelin was reportedly assaulted while covering an event at the Hôpital de l’Université d’État d’Haïti.

According to the station, the journalist is currently in Cuba receiving medical treatment after numerous efforts to secure care.

The media representative also addressed Bertrand Sinal, Haiti’s Minister of Public Health, regarding Jocelin’s situation.

Appeal for proof of life

In conclusion, the families of the kidnapped journalists and leaders of the two media outlets renewed their appeal to the kidnappers to provide proof of life or release the journalists.

They also urged Haitian authorities to act swiftly to ensure the safe return of Osnel Espérance and Junior Célestin.

Ronald André.