Haiti Awaits Solutions, Not Spectacles

This Thursday, July 17, Toussaint Louverture International Airport transformed into a scene of popular jubilation on the occasion of the return of Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, returning from an official mission to Washington. Printed T-shirts, rara groups, motorcyclists, and banners of support accompanied this skillfully orchestrated staging, as if to remind that the public image remains a government priority. But while the government in power refines its appearance with well-oiled propaganda, the country's reality, however, cannot be disguised. Barely a few hours after this festive welcome, several neighborhoods of the capital were attacked by armed groups, plunging citizens back into the chronic insecurity that has plagued Haiti for too long. The government's lack of a concrete and coordinated response to this resurgence of violence raises questions and indignation. This blatant contrast between the energy spent on managing political communication and the apparent disinterest in the people's suffering is indicative of a deeper ill: the authorities' disconnection from the population's real priorities. Haitians do not expect welcome shows, but strong actions, serious public policies, concrete measures against insecurity, the high cost of living, corruption, and institutional dysfunction. If the Prime Minister and his team truly wish to regain the people's trust, they will have to understand one fundamental thing: it is neither tweets, nor cameras, nor mingling with crowds that will ensure their legitimacy, but work. Sincere, arduous, and constant work in favor of the community, social justice, and lasting peace. Propaganda is an ephemeral flame, quickly extinguished by the anger of a people who suffer, weep, and wait. This people no longer needs appearances, but results. The Haitian government today faces a choice: continue to dance in front of cameras while the country burns, or roll up its sleeves and finally confront the nation's emergencies. Slogans do not feed. Ceremonies do not appease. Only sincere action, serving the common good, can restore a breath of hope to a people betrayed for too long. By Gesly Sinvilier