Haiti protesters brace for more upheaval over removal of its President

The Haitian protests continue on October 5 with more upheaval demanding the resignation of President Jovenel Moïse. Earlier on Friday, they conducted the largest protest to date in the country's history. The protesters stood against corruption, ballooning inflation and a shortage of basic goods. They further called for international support to remove Moise as they claim that his decisions have led to social and economic problems in Haiti. 

Assad Volcy, who launched a political party two years ago but is joining forces with opposition leaders from other parties trying to oust Moïse said, "If they love Jovenel that much, then send him somewhere else. We're going to keep protesting until he resigns or goes to jail." 

Read: Haiti: UN Reacts As Unrest Continues To Disrupt Daily Life & Services

International organizations hold on to support for Moise

International giants including the US, UN, and others are still holding on to their support for Moise. This has made problems and protests linger. On Friday, 2 people have been reportedly shot dead as police in riot gear blocked the main entrance to the airport and fired tear gas at the crowd, who resorted to stone-pelting against the guards. Several protesters who gathered outside in a show of strength displayed their signboards and chanted slogans of unity. Some quoted famous leaders from around the world such as Bernie Sanders and Nancy Pelosi, who have all criticised the situation in Haiti before. Others held out red cards for Moïse like those used to penalize and eject soccer players from a game. 

 "Trump give Haiti one chance" read a placard which was part of the brigade of several protesters asking the US for help.

Read | Haiti Braces For New Protest, Demands That Leader Resign

Moise denies allegations, as the Opposition reject his call for dialogue

Moïse has denied all corruption allegations and said that he will not resign. Yet Haitian opposition has created a nine-member commission to oversee corruption allegations which involve the use of funds from a Venezuela-subsidized oil program. They have also denied Moise's proposition for dialogue. Moïse's ally, former Prime Minister Evans Paul who met international organizations said that Moise has two options: nominate an opposition-backed prime minister or shorten the length of his mandate. 

Opposition leader André Michel said, "Jovenel Moïse must step down as quickly as possible. The battle will go on."

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Effects of the protests in Haiti

By now a total number of 17 people have been killed in protests across Haiti. Even the economy is badly hit and 2 million children are missing out on school. Adding to the misery, aid has been suspended to the rural areas. Even basic amenities like food, gasoline and water are scarce in several areas.

(With inputs from Associated Press)

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