In a significant development, members of a transitional presidential council in Haiti issued their first official statement, vowing to restore "public and democratic order" in the country. The statement, signed by eight out of nine council members, indicates that the lengthy and contentious nomination process may be nearing its end.

The council members expressed their determination to alleviate the suffering of the Haitian people who have long endured bad governance, multifaceted violence, and a lack of regard for their perspectives and needs. They emphasized their commitment to putting Haiti back on the path of democratic legitimacy, stability, and dignity as soon as the council is officially installed.

This statement comes amidst a wave of violence that started about a month ago when gangs began targeting important government infrastructures in Port-au-Prince, the capital of Haiti. Although the violence has somewhat subsided since the attacks began on February 29, the impact has been devastating. Gangs have burned down police stations, fired upon the main international airport (which remains closed), and stormed two of Haiti's largest prisons, resulting in the release of more than 4,000 inmates. Tragically, numerous lives have been lost, and approximately 17,000 people have been left homeless.

The council members have pledged to execute a clear action plan to restore public and democratic order. Their plan includes prioritizing the security of the population, relief of poverty, free elections, and necessary reforms for the progress of the nation. The councilors also highlighted their development of criteria and mechanisms to select a council president, a new prime minister, and a ministerial cabinet.

Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who is currently unable to enter Haiti, has previously stated that he will resign once the council is formally established. The council members stressed the importance of unity at this critical turning point and called upon the entire nation to come together to overcome the crisis and build a better future for the country.

The statement from the transitional presidential council offers hope that the nomination process is near completion and that concrete steps will be taken to restore stability, security, and dignity to the people of Haiti.