Statement by Ambassador Léon Charles, Permanent Representative of Haiti to the Organization of American States (OAS) on the deterioration of the security situation in Haiti.

Statement :

"The National Police of Haiti (PNH) and the Armed Forces of Haiti (FAd'H) must continue to deploy efforts despite the limited means at their disposal to support the population in search of security.

The self-defense tendencies observed in recent times among the population, helpless to protect themselves, cannot constitute a viable response in the medium and long term to stem this phenomenon of unprecedented terror.

These initiatives caused by desperation, even if they are understandable in some cases, must be supervised by the PNH to avoid slippages. It goes without saying that extrajudicial executions cannot be encouraged in a state governed by the rule of law.

Now is not the time for gestures of compassion. The survival of the Nation can no longer continue to depend on the infusion of humanitarian assistance. Decisive actions must be taken in concert with foreign partners to prevent the collapse of Haiti."

IH/ iciHaiti