Washington Sanctions Two New CPT Members and One Minister

The United States announced on Wednesday afternoon new visa restrictions targeting Haitian officials whom it believes are strengthening terrorist groups in Haiti. The measures affect two members of the Transitional Presidential Council (CPT) and one government minister.

As is customary, the U.S. Department of State did not disclose the names of the individuals concerned. Senior Deputy Spokesperson Thomas Pigott merely confirmed that visa restrictions have been imposed on three Haitian officials: two members of the Transitional Presidential Council and one minister.

According to a statement relayed by the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince, their actions have enabled Haitian armed groups — some of which are designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations — to further destabilize the country.

The statement adds that the measures were taken pursuant to Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), which generally bars entry into the United States for individuals whose entry or intended activities could have serious adverse consequences for U.S. foreign policy.

As a result, the Department will revoke all currently valid visas held by the individuals concerned, as well as those of their immediate family members (spouses and children).

“Anyone who contributes to the destabilization of Haiti and our hemisphere will be sanctioned,” Washington warned.

Less than a week ago, the United States sanctioned two CPT members: Edgard Leblanc Fils and Louis Gérald Gilles. Before them, Fritz Jean had also been sanctioned. All of these measures target presidential advisers who are seeking to remove Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé.

In addition to the three advisers already sanctioned, the group of five pushing for the Prime Minister’s departure also includes Smith Augustin and Leslie Voltaire.

The U.S. Department of State says it intends to continue promoting accountability for those who destabilize Haiti and the wider region.

Dodeley Orelus