As part of the Christmas festivities, the General Directorate of the National Police of Haiti (PNH) organized, on December 24, 2025, a special activity in honor of the children of police officers who died in the exercise of their duties during the year.

In an atmosphere full of emotion and solidarity, the children were able to share a moment of joy around games, dances, a festive meal and the distribution of gifts. This day of celebration was marked by the presence of members of the PNH High Command.

Speech by Vladimir Paraison, Acting Commander of the PNH :

"[...] Today, words come to me with a certain restraint. How, in fact, can I say festive wishes, when I know deep down that for many children here present, this celebration is not the one they had dreamed of ? They are not yet adults, yet life already confronts them with absence.

When I look at these young women, their children held close to them, I see the wife of a brother in arms, of a colleague who, for a cruel reason of fate, is not here among us. This image grips us, invites us to an inner silence. It leads us to these children: how do they grow? How do they get through these festive days ?

It is to respond to this fraternal concern that the National Police, under my command, wanted to share with you a moment of human warmth. We who wear the uniform know that in the eyes of these little ones, we can remind them of this father who, every December 25, crossed the threshold of the house. Perhaps without much wealth in his pocket, but his hands are never empty. Even just a piece of candy, a bottle of juice, a square of chocolate... a little nothing that, for a child, becomes a whole. I don't pretend to replace your father. But I want you to know this: behind every uniform, there is a watching gaze, a presence that wants to be protective.

[...] Each police officer is a bit of your father, each police officer is a bit of your mother. I'm not looking for words that sadden, only those that connect.

So, even if I cannot fill the absence, let me tell you, on behalf of the family that we form : I wish you a Christmas full of sweetness, and a year guided by hope.

Let's share this day, simply, together. Because it is in these tenuous bonds, these shared moments, that life continues to be written, between you and us. Thank you for your presence, especially to you, the mothers, who carry this reality with so much courage on a daily basis.

We know that some absences cannot be filled. Every time you come across a uniform, a thought will undoubtedly go to the one who is no longer there, and your eyes will water. But know this: let us know who you are. Tell us what you need, what helping hand could help you move forward. We will never replace your husband, but we are committed to being, as much as possible, a reflection of his presence at your side, a support when the road seems too long.

Merry Christmas to each of you !"

HL/ HaitiLibre