Avellon Williams
PORT-AU-PRINCE, HAITI- The Canadian government has imposed sanctions on three Haitian politicians.
Those sanctioned have been accused of aiding gang leaders and laundering their illicit earnings.
An official statement from the government stated, “these individuals are using their status as current or previous public office holders to protect and enable the illegal activities of armed criminal gangs, including through money laundering and other acts of corruption.”
On the weekend, the foreign ministry announced sanctions aimed at stopping the flow of illicit funds and weapons as well as weakening and disabling Haiti’s criminal gangs.
Due to the sanctions, Senator Ronny Célestin, Former Senator Hervé Fourcand, and Former Chamber of Deputies President Gary Bodeau will be unable to access any assets held in Canada.
As a result of the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in 2021, Haiti’s gangs have become more powerful, and Prime Minister Ariel Henry has been challenged to restore order in the country.
By imposing these sanctions, the UN Security Council implements a resolution that builds on sanctions previously imposed by the United States and Canada. These sanctions are intended to stop the illegal flow of money and weapons into Haiti that aid criminals.
