The Haitian Post Office at the Heart of a Ten-Year Strategic Reform: Testimony from the Haitian League for Human Rights Defense

PORT-AU-PRINCE.— A delegation from the Haitian League for Human Rights Defense visited the Haitian Post Office to inquire about the functioning of this institution, which has gone unnoticed for about ten years. The LHDDH presented a report highlighting the significant modernization efforts deployed by the current administration in a constantly evolving technological context and in the face of sociopolitical challenges. The Basis of This Visit In this document submitted for public attention, the Haitian League for Human Rights Defense frames its approach within its mission of monitoring public service institutions, ensuring respect for taxpayers' rights. “We noticed a silence that resembles a blackout regarding the post office, so we went to see what was happening,” justified Jhemps Meralus, the League's Executive Director. Indeed, the Haitian League for Human Rights Defense presented a report prepared after its observation visit to the OPH premises, relocated to SONAPI due to insecurity. “Assessment of reforms undertaken under the direction of Carel Alexandre Camille, in office since April 2015,” it read. A Model of Organization Free from All Forms of Agitation Created in November 1987, the OPH operates under the aegis of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, in close collaboration with the Ministry of Economy and Finance; and sometimes the MTPTC. In this hierarchy, the MCI acts as the President of the Board of Directors, while the OPH's Director General serves as its Secretary General. In this capacity, he does not act as a public authorizing officer. The institution, which has long navigated between periods of eclipse and revitalization, is currently reorganized around a collegial operating model, with a five-member management board reporting on structured and coherent management that reassures a loyal clientele. To date, no employee protest movements have been reported, no complaints, while the institution continues to deliver received packages, produce and distribute stamps, participating silently and despite the unrest in the functioning of the State. “My secret, as a military officer, is respect for standards and principles,” revealed the OPH Director General, as transcribed in the League's report. Notable Reforms Identified by the LHDDH Under the governance of Carel Alexandre, several flagship initiatives have been implemented, aiming to reposition the OPH on the international stage. Among these measures, the League identified:
1. *Employee Salary Review:* This initiative aims to ensure salary equity by aligning remunerations with the legal minimum wage, thereby reducing internal disparities.
2. *Implementation of a Rigorous Reporting System:* This mechanism allows for continuous evaluation of institutional performance at the end of each fiscal year, thus promoting increased transparency.
3. *Introduction of Express Mail Service:* This new service, equipped with a tracking number, ensures global mail traceability, adhering to international standards for postal service. Beyond structural reforms, the OPH also distinguishes itself through its commitment to cultural initiatives. The 2015 epistolary competition demonstrates its desire to enrich the Haitian cultural space, stimulating youth creativity while consolidating the institution's role in promoting art and culture. A Shortfall Despite Efforts Despite notable progress, the LHDDH highlights certain difficulties, particularly delays in the publication of final reports for the 2023-2024 fiscal year, a situation attributed to the difficult sociopolitical climate. Nevertheless, the report is currently being published while the 2024-2025 report is in preparation. Nonetheless, the OPH's actions in modernization, restructuring, and integration of advanced technologies underscore its determination to adapt to contemporary challenges. By the end of 2024, an ambitious project for symbolic re-establishment is envisioned. The adoption of a “roadmap” aims to reorient the OPH's strategy and formalize the reforms undertaken, thereby consolidating the sustainability and competitiveness of Haitian postal services within the global market. The LHDDH, in its report, acknowledges the sustained efforts of the Haitian Post Office, which strives to meet the growing expectations of its clientele and address exogenous challenges. These advancements, while interspersed with obstacles, demonstrate an undeniable will for institutional renewal, essential for the future of postal service in Haiti. Jean Mapou