Port-au-Prince, January 26, 2026—In a gesture heavy with symbolism, the President of the Transitional Presidential Council (CPT), Laurent Saint-Cyr, visited the Grand Headquarters of the Forces Armées d’Haïti (FAD’H) on Monday. He was accompanied by Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé and Defense Minister Jean Michel Moïse.
The official visit comes at a particularly sensitive time for the country, which continues to face rising insecurity, the growing influence of armed groups, and a prolonged institutional crisis.
Upon arrival, President Saint-Cyr was welcomed by the Commander-in-Chief of the FAD’H, Lieutenant General Derby Guerrier, his deputy General Jean Jonas, and the entire military High Command. The reception, marked by formal protocol, set the tone for a meeting that was both institutional and symbolic, aimed at reaffirming the importance of the armed forces within the national security framework.
Addressing senior officers, the CPT Coordinator praised their daily commitment. “The Armed Forces of Haiti play a strategic role in protecting our critical infrastructure, supporting institutions, and ensuring the safety of our fellow citizens. Their professionalism and discipline are essential assets for the recovery of our country,” he said.
At the heart of the visit, Saint-Cyr emphasized the modernization and professionalization of the Haitian army. According to him, these two priorities are crucial to transforming the FAD’H into a credible institution capable of meeting security challenges and actively contributing to national recovery.
“A modern and operational army is not only a security force; it is also a pillar of political and economic stability,” he added. He stressed that state support goes beyond symbolic backing and includes logistics, training, equipment, and internal organization.
This push for modernization comes after years in which Haiti’s military institution was marginalized. Following its dissolution in the 1990s and gradual reorganization in the following decade, the FAD’H has been in a rebuilding phase, seeking to redefine its role alongside the National Police and regain public trust.
One of Saint-Cyr’s central messages focused on the absolute neutrality of the armed forces. For him, this is essential to guaranteeing public confidence and securing international recognition of the institution. “Neutrality is the key to credibility. Haitians must know they can rely on an apolitical army committed solely to protecting the nation,” he stressed.
The statement carries particular weight in a country where the army’s historical role in political affairs has often been controversial. By reaffirming this neutrality, Saint-Cyr sends a strong signal to both citizens and the international community.
For the CPT President, strengthening the FAD’H goes beyond military considerations. It is also about laying the groundwork for free and credible elections, viewed as a crucial milestone for national stability. “Security is a prerequisite for the effective exercise of democracy. Without a safe environment, no electoral process can be legitimate,” he said.
He highlighted the complementary roles of the armed forces and the National Police. While the police are tasked with maintaining public order and fighting crime, the army must provide logistical, security, and institutional support, particularly in areas where police presence remains limited.
During discussions with the military High Command, several key priorities were identified: ongoing training for officers and soldiers, modern equipment, and improved logistics to make the FAD’H more effective and operational.
The High Command expressed gratitude for the visit and reaffirmed its willingness to fully cooperate with civilian authorities. Military leaders emphasized their commitment to playing an active role in restoring security nationwide and protecting citizens and state institutions.
The CPT President’s visit comes as Haiti faces a resurgence of violence and organized crime. In several urban neighborhoods, armed gangs exert near-total control, while roads and strategic infrastructure remain vulnerable. In this context, reaffirming the (Haitian Armed Forces)
FAD’H’s role appears to address public concern and signal a strengthening of state authority.
Beyond its institutional dimension, the visit is rich in symbolism. It reflects the government’s determination to show that the state is present, engaged, and ready to support its armed forces in a process of professionalization and modernization.
For Haitian citizens, the message is clear: the country aims to build a credible, neutral army capable of guaranteeing security for all. For the international community, it signals Haiti’s resolve to strengthen its institutions and lay the foundations for lasting stability.
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