Haiti Enters Political Limbo as Transitional Council Dissolves

On February 7, 2026, Haiti's Transitional Presidential Council (CPT) dissolved after nearly two years of governance, handing power to U.S.-backed Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé. The council was established in April 2024 following the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, with the aim of stabilizing the country and organizing long-overdue elections. However, the council's tenure has been marred by rampant gang violence, corruption allegations, and political infighting, ultimately leading to its failure to achieve its objectives.

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The council's dissolution comes at a time when gangs control approximately 90% of Port-au-Prince, resulting in widespread violence and insecurity. In 2025 alone, nearly 6,000 people were reported killed due to gang-related activities. The U.S. has increased its military presence in the region, deploying three warships to reinforce its commitment to Haiti's stability. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the importance of Fils-Aimé's leadership in combating gang violence and restoring order.

Haiti’s transitional council transfers power to US-backed prime minister Fils-Aimé

The CPT was formed in response to the political crisis following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021. The council was tasked with curbing gang violence and facilitating elections, but it faced significant challenges, including accusations of corruption against its members and a deteriorating security situation. By the end of its mandate, the CPT had failed to organize elections, which have not been held since 2016.

Haiti enters political limbo as transition government's mandate ends

Despite plans for elections in 2026, many observers doubt their feasibility due to the ongoing violence and instability. The council's inability to address these issues has led to widespread public discontent, with many Haitians expressing frustration over the lack of effective governance.

Haiti's Presidential Council Dissolves After Rocky Tenure as Unelected US-Backed Ruler Remains

Local residents have voiced their dissatisfaction with the CPT's performance. André Joseph, a street vendor, stated, “Their time is up. They were there nearly two years and didn’t do anything for the country.” Critics argue that the council's failure to manage gang violence and corruption has exacerbated the country's dire situation. Johnny Baptisma, a Haitian journalist, described the council's governance as a "total failure," highlighting the mismanagement and lack of progress during its tenure.

Haiti's Presidential Council Dissolves After Rocky Tenure as Unelected US-Backed Ruler Remains

In a statement following the council's dissolution, U.S. officials reiterated their support for Prime Minister Fils-Aimé, stating, “As the Transitional Presidential Council's mandate ends, we support Prime Minister Fils-Aimé’s leadership in building a strong, prosperous and free Haiti.” The U.S. has also imposed sanctions on several council members accused of colluding with gangs, further emphasizing its commitment to stabilizing the region.

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While the CPT's dissolution marks a significant political shift, there remains uncertainty regarding the future governance structure. Various factions within Haiti's political landscape have proposed different frameworks for a transitional government, but consensus remains elusive. The lack of a clear succession plan raises concerns about potential power vacuums and further instability.

Haiti enters political limbo as transition government's mandate ends

As Haiti navigates this political limbo, the international community, particularly the U.S. and the United Nations, is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the next steps. The UN has approved an international security force to assist in restoring order, but deployment has been slow, with fewer than 1,000 troops currently in place. The situation remains precarious, with many Haitians hoping for a resolution that will lead to effective governance and the long-awaited elections.

U.S. backs Haiti’s prime minister as presidential transitional council’s mandate ends