Washington Revokes Visa of High-Ranking Haitian Official Accused of Supporting Gangs

WASHINGTON.— The United States announced Monday a new series of sanctions targeting a high-ranking Haitian government official, accused of maintaining ties with criminal groups and obstructing efforts to combat criminal organizations destabilizing the country. In a statement, the State Department confirmed having imposed “visa restrictions on a current Haitian government official for supporting gangs and other criminal organizations, and for obstructing the Haitian government’s fight against terrorist gangs.” The name of the sanctioned high-ranking official was not revealed in the statement, while Advisor-President Fritz Alphonse Jean had his American visa revoked. Everything suggests that the sanctioned high-ranking official could be one of the members of the CPT. A strong signal as gangs continue to gain ground This decision comes as Washington intensifies its pressure on Haitian actors suspected of collusion with gang leaders. In May 2025, the United States had placed two important armed coalitions, Viv Ansanm and Gran Grif, on the official list of foreign terrorist organizations, a first in the recent history of relations between the two countries. According to the State Department, these measures aim to support stabilization efforts and create the necessary conditions for a return to democratic order. “The United States remains committed to supporting stability in Haiti and expects concrete progress toward free and fair elections. The Haitian people are tired of gang violence, destruction, and internal political squabbles,” the statement emphasizes. A context of diplomatic tension The revocation of a Haitian high-ranking official’s visa is part of a broader Washington strategy aimed at isolating and sanctioning any political or administrative figure suspected of supporting gangs or profiting from the chaos. For several observers, this measure could announce a series of additional sanctions in the coming weeks, as the United States pushes for an acceleration of the electoral process and a strengthening of the rule of law. Source: AFP Jean Mapou