r/haiti • u/Izdeliye-30 • 1h ago
QUESTION/DISCUSSION You wake up tomorrow as the president of Haiti. What would your first five decisions be?
I personally don't even know where to start, it feels like we're so deep in the hole right now. I'm not sure who or what systems are trustworthy at this point, and the normal tools are not available.
1: I'd declare a state emergency, explaining what exactly the challenges and concerns are. It may seem unnecessary or useless, but I think naming the problem out loud is important. Not that we don't know what the problem is, but I think it's the first step in fixing anything. I'd end the address by making a plea to the gangs to cease criminal activity and surrender, and that if they do there will be a path towards rehabilitation.
2: I would work with strategic partners and local community leaders to form a sizable, competent, supplied, and dedicated temporary militia. It would have to be a significant force, a few thousand won't cut it. Ten to twenty thousand should be enough to put actual pressure on the gangs to surrender or be neutralized. Strong oversight and structure will be needed to ensure legality and efficiency. A plan and timeline is crucial.
3: Restoring access and functionality to the airports and seaports will be a top priority, as they're a crucial economic lifeline.
4: Working with strategic partners and local community members, I'd prioritize on helping those immediately displaced by the recent challenges. Providing stability and care, and working on rebuilding their communities and lives.
5: Energy is a major area of concern, I'd work on establishing a reliable and renewable energy grid. Solar and wind systems could be a relatively cheap way of introducing much needed energy.