Haiti: A Damning ULCC Report Incriminates Michel Martelly and Revives the Debate on Impunity
By Jean Mapou · Port-au-Prince · · 2 min read · Updated 24 April 2026
Translated from French — AI-assisted and reviewed by the editorial team. The French version is authoritative. Read the original · About our translation policy
PORT-AU-PRINCE.— The publication of the report by the Anti-Corruption Unit (ULCC) on the assets of former president Michel Joseph Martelly has created a major political shock. The document accuses the former head of state of false declaration, concealment of assets, illicit enrichment, and embezzlement of public funds.
Voices are beginning to rise, immediately demanding that the government commissioner, Me Fritz Patterson Dorval, initiate legal proceedings against Martelly and several members of his entourage.
An Explosive Report
The ULCC concludes that the irregularities are not accidental: «The discrepancies observed reveal a concerted set of omissions, concealments, and falsifications». Among the infractions noted are late declarations, including an exit declaration filed two years after the end of the mandate, non-compliance with legal deadlines which constitutes an offense punishable by law, and undeclared bank accounts: at least 12 upon taking office, and 9 upon leaving.
«Several active accounts were never brought to the institution's attention», the ULCC emphasized in its investigation report, highlighting other facts such as: Revenues increased by 270%, without justification. Declared revenues not matching bank statements or tax declarations. Omitted or undervalued real estate and businesses.
A Real Estate Transaction at the Heart of the Scandal
One of the most serious elements concerns the sale to the National Education Fund (FNE) of a house located in Puits-Blain: «A house valued at 500,000 dollars was sold for 5 million dollars, constituting a massive embezzlement of public funds», the report notes.
The ULCC also mentions a real estate operation whose declared values cannot be justified.
Entourage Also Targeted
The ULCC's conclusions also concern: Sophia Saint-Rémy Martelly, Olivier Martelly, Yves “Tijo” Joseph, Lionel Valbrun, and Richemond Dérénoncourt, citing a network of undue advantages and financial movements incompatible with declared incomes.
Given the seriousness of the facts exposed, should we expect legal action? This case constitutes a major test for the credibility of the fight against corruption in Haiti. It remains to be seen if the public prosecutor's office will dare to take the step.
Jean Mapou
