Port-au-Prince, Haiti – Bishop Pierre-André Dumas of Anse-à-Veau-Miragoâne and vice-president of the Haitian Bishops Conference has been injured in an explosion, according to the Bishops Conference. The Bishop, who has been vocal about the ongoing violence in Haiti, is reported to be in stable condition.
The explosion occurred on Sunday at the residence where Bishop Dumas was staying in Port-au-Prince, as reported by the country’s episcopal conference. The news of the Bishop’s injury comes at a time when Haiti continues to struggle with persistent violence and unrest.
In the midst of the Bishop’s injury, the security situation in western Haiti remains dire, with recent reports of an armed group attacking a minibus traveling between Port-au-Prince and Mirebalais, resulting in at least 10 casualties. This incident is believed to involve members of the criminal gang “400 Mawozo,” further highlighting the pervasive violence in the region.
Haiti has long been plagued by violence stemming from the control sought by various gangs in the territory. January 2024 was reported as the bloodiest month in over two years, with over 1,100 people killed, injured, or kidnapped, according to the UN. The unrest has continued, with recent protests led by the opposition calling for the resignation of interim Prime Minister Ariel Henry, adding to the country’s turmoil.
Recent developments in Haiti include the indictment of around fifty people by the justice system, including former first lady Martine Moïse, former Prime Minister Claude Joseph, and former head of the Haitian National Police Léon Charles. They are being charged for their alleged involvement in the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse, who was killed in his residence in Port-au-Prince in July 2021 by a group of Colombian mercenaries.
It is clear that the situation in Haiti remains precarious, with ongoing violence and political instability posing significant challenges to the nation’s security and stability. The injury of Bishop Dumas serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for resolution and peace in the country.