In a significant move aimed at addressing the ongoing turmoil and gang violence in Haiti, a transitional council has been established to choose the country's next prime minister and Cabinet. The formation of this council, consisting of various political parties, civil society leaders, and representatives from the private sector, is believed to be a crucial step towards restoring stability in the troubled Caribbean nation.

The council's formation was announced in a decree published in a Haitian government gazette on Friday. It is expected to lead to the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who had previously committed to stepping down once the council was created. However, Henry has not yet officially commented on the development.

The transitional council comprises several parties, including Petit Desalin led by former senator and presidential candidate Jean-Charles Moïse, EDE/RED led by former Prime Minister Claude Joseph, the Montana Accord representing civil society leaders and political parties, Fanmi Lavalas, the party of former President Jean-Bertrand Aristide, the Jan. 30 Collective representing parties including that of former President Michel Martelly, and representatives from the private sector. Additionally, two non-voting seats have been allocated to someone from Haiti's civil society and its religious sector.

The United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti has expressed its support for the political process and emphasized the importance of international support for Haiti's National Police in restoring security and the rule of law. María Isabel Salvador, the U.N. special envoy for Haiti, reaffirmed the organization's commitment to assisting the country's institutions in their efforts to restore democratic governance.

This establishment of the council comes exactly a month after Caribbean leaders announced their plans to form a nine-member panel, with seven members having voting powers. The development has been welcomed by those hopeful that the council's existence will lead Haiti towards a new direction and help quell the widespread gang violence that has paralyzed parts of the capital, Port-au-Prince, for over a month.

According to the United Nations, the violence in Haiti has resulted in more than 1,550 deaths and over 820 injuries from January to March 22. While gangs have long been a presence in the country, large-scale attacks were initiated in late February, including the burning of police stations, attacks on the main international airport, and the release of thousands of inmates from prisons. These attacks were specifically aimed at preventing Henry's return to Haiti, as he was advocating for the deployment of a U.N.-backed police force from Kenya at the time.

Although there has been a slight decrease in violence, gangs continue to launch attacks in Port-au-Prince, particularly in the downtown area where they have taken control of Haiti's largest public hospital. The establishment of the transitional council signifies an important step forward in addressing these ongoing challenges and paving the way for a more stable and secure future for Haiti.