Rev. Jean Paul reports that a temporary calm is giving many Haitians a brief respite this week. However, following the meetings at the end of last week between the two factions and a U.S. mediator, no breakthrough was announced and the current president fully intends to remain in power. Because this almost year-long standoff is focused on the replacement of President Moise with an interim government and future new elections, Pastor Paul believes that there will be no lasting peace and stability until the president agrees to step down. Also, Jean’s sources are telling him that the opposition movement is planning renewed and larger protests to shutdown Haiti beginning on March 7th, if the president continues to hold onto power.
Pastor Paul’s primary concern right now is to stockpile what he can for the orphanage before another severe disruption in food and other supplies may begin. Due to the continued protests, riots, and violence, Reformation Hope has had to postpone teaching and mission trips for March. Please be in prayer for the needed change of government to Haitian leaders who practice compassion, love justice, and are concerned for the people of Haiti—officials who fear God and who seek His wisdom.
For further background and analysis of the present crisis in Haiti, NPR offers an in-depth article.