Members of the Montana Accord call for urgent reforms in the Presidential Transitional Council to fight corruption
In a letter addressed to Fritz Alphonse Jean, presidential advisor, several signatories of the Montana Accord, including Witchner Ormeus, Marc Arthur Fils Aimé, Josué Mérilien and Jean Baptiste Bien Aimé, expressed their concern about the deep crisis affecting the Haitian society. These signatories call for the withdrawal of the three presidential advisers involved in the corruption scandal linked to the National Credit Bank (BNC).
The signatories also urge the Presidential Transitional Council (CPT) to immediately publish the decree for the appointment of members of the National Security Council (CNS) and to replace the government led by Doctor Garry Conille. They also demand the immediate publication of the order formalizing the Government Action Control Body (OCAG).
Among their recommendations, they propose to the CPT to review the composition of the Steering Committee of the Sovereign National Conference by making corrections to the decree, to appoint the Directors General, the delegates, as well as the members of the cartels of the territorial authorities for a proper management of the country. They insist on the exclusion of advisors indexed in the ULCC report concerning the BNC, on the revision of the composition of the Justice and Truth Committee, as well as on the updating and publication of the Agreement of April 3, 2024.
These demands reflect an urgent call for reforms aimed at strengthening the transparency and credibility of transitional institutions in Haiti.
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2024-11-01 01:18:00
Interview between Time.news Editor and Political Expert on Haitian Corruption Reforms
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome to this edition of Timely Talks. Today, we’re diving deep into the urgent calls for reform from the Montana Accord regarding the Presidential Transitional Council in Haiti. Joining us is Dr. Marlene Dufresne, a political analyst specializing in Haitian governance and corruption. Thank you for being here, Dr. Dufresne.
Dr. Marlene Dufresne (DMD): Thank you for having me. It’s a critical moment for Haiti, and I appreciate the opportunity to discuss it.
TNE: Let’s start with the recent letter addressed to presidential advisor Fritz Alphonse Jean by members of the Montana Accord. They expressed concerns over corruption tied to the National Credit Bank scandal. What do you think prompted this letter and its urgency?
DMD: The letter highlights a growing frustration with the current state of governance in Haiti. The signatories recognize that corruption not only weakens institutions but also erodes public trust. The National Credit Bank scandal is just one piece of a broader systemic issue. The call for urgent reforms reflects a consensus that if the transitional government doesn’t take decisive action, the social fabric of Haiti may further deteriorate.
TNE: The signatories also called for the withdrawal of three presidential advisers linked to this corruption scandal. In your view, how crucial is accountability among those in leadership positions for the credibility of governance?
DMD: It’s absolutely vital. Accountability is the cornerstone of any functioning democracy. By demanding the removal of advisers implicated in corruption, the Montana Accord is signaling that leadership must be held to a higher standard. Without it, there’s no foundation for legitimacy, and citizens will lose faith in the system altogether. This demands not only the removal of those implicated but also a transparent process for replacing them.
TNE: They also requested the immediate publication of decrees related to national security and governance. Why is transparency in these areas particularly important right now?
DMD: Transparency in governance ensures that citizens are informed and engaged in the political process, which is essential in a society grappling with crises. It’s particularly critical during transitional periods, where decisions taken can have lasting impacts. The swift publication of decrees related to national security and government actions would help reassure the public that reforms are forthcoming and that the council is working in the best interests of the country.
TNE: The letter includes a call to review the Steering Committee of the Sovereign National Conference and address issues around territorial authorities. How does this relate to effective governance in Haiti?
DMD: Effective governance is rooted in inclusivity and representation. By revising the Steering Committee’s composition, the government can ensure that various voices and communities are integrated into the decision-making process. A diverse leadership fosters better policies and governance strategies that reflect the needs of all citizens rather than just a select few.
TNE: the demands also emphasize the importance of excluding advisers aknowledged in corruption reports. What can you say about the relationship between corruption and effective governance?
DMD: Corruption is a cancer that erodes the very foundations of governance. It undermines economic stability, perpetuates inequality, and stifles development. By excluding those associated with corrupt practices from leadership roles, Haiti has the opportunity to pave the way for a government that prioritizes integrity and service to the population. It’s an essential step toward rebuilding trust and fostering a more equitable society.
TNE: Dr. Dufresne, thank you for your insights on this pressing situation in Haiti. The call for reform by the Montana Accord certainly raises critical questions about governance and accountability.
DMD: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these vital issues. I hope that by shedding light on these matters, we can encourage informed conversations and actions that lead to positive change in Haiti.
TNE: And thank you to our viewers for joining us on Timely Talks. Keep following us for more updates and discussions on critical global issues. Until next time!
