As a reminder, on January 9, 2026, the authorities in the North launched a demolition operation called "Sidewalk Reclamation" on the Boulevard du Cap-Haitien, a strategic and tourist area, under the authority of Marc Merzius Présumé, Departmental Delegate of the North, in the presence of the city's Mayor, Angie Bell. At least 17 buildings and commercial structures encroaching on public land were completely demolished on the Boulevard du Cap-Haitien, a strategic and tourist area.

In a statement, Steve A. MATHIEU, President of the North Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI Nord), expressed "his deep concern regarding the way in which the so-called 'Sidewalk Reclamation' operation in Cap-Haitien" was carried out.

Note from CCI Nord :

"[...] The Board of the North Chamber of Commerce and Industry wishes, first and foremost, to clarify that it is not commenting on the legal basis of the said operation, nor on the institutional responsibilities related to the occupation of public space. These matters fall under the specific jurisdiction of the legally authorized authorities and other relevant institutions under the direction of the supervisory ministries, in strict compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

However, the Board deems it necessary to publicly express its deep concern regarding the manner in which this operation was conducted. Indeed, several businesses and economic actors have been affected by demolitions carried out without reasonable notice, without prior communication of a clear and structured plan, without an official implementation schedule, and without specific consultation meetings with the directly affected contractors. Previous meetings generally addressed the concerning state of the city of Cap-Haitien, without any operation of this nature being clearly announced, explained, or discussed.

The Board of the North Chamber of Commerce wishes to affirm that it has never endorsed or validated a hasty, haphazard, and unilateral approach, especially when it entails major economic, social, and human consequences for the city, its businesses, and its families. It strongly reiterates that any large-scale public action, particularly when it affects economic activity, employment, and the survival of small and medium-sized enterprises, must absolutely be conducted within a framework of dialogue, consultation, predictability, and respect for democratic principles.

The Board condemns the abuses of power and violence perpetrated during these activities, particularly against individuals, including women, who were attempting to exercise their legitimate right to freedom of expression and peaceful protest. The Chamber expresses its solidarity and sympathy to the victims affected by these events.

The Board of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the North remains convinced that urban development, heritage protection, public order, and the modernization of the city of Cap-Haïtien can only be sustainable if they are based on consensus, transparency, mutual respect, and responsible governance. It reiterates its willingness to participate in any constructive dialogue aimed at reconciling the public interest, heritage preservation, and the protection of the local economy."

HL/ HaitiLibre