Following his resignation, a senior U.S. official said Henry was free to remain in Puerto Rico or travel elsewhere.
Haiti's Prime Minister Ariel Henry has resigned amid escalating chaos, regional leaders said Monday, who also said the resignation will take effect once a transitional council and temporary replacement are named.
The resignation of Henry, who led the Caribbean country since the assassination of its last president in 2021, was confirmed by Guyana's leader and president of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Irfaan Ali.
Ali stated: “We recognize the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry following the establishment of a transitional presidential council and the appointment of an interim prime minister.”
Under Henry's administration, armed gangs increased their wealth, influence and territory, prompting the 74-year-old neurosurgeon to seek Kenyan support for a United Nations-backed security mission.
However, the situation worsened, leaving Henry stranded in Puerto Rico, leading regional leaders to call for a quick transition.
“The government I lead will resign immediately following the installation of a (transitional) council,” Henry said in a video speech. “I want to thank the Haitian people for the opportunity they have given me.”
“I ask all Haitians to remain calm and do everything possible so that peace and stability return as quickly as possible,” he added.
Following his resignation, videos shared on social media across Haiti showed people celebrating in the streets, dancing to music in a party atmosphere and setting off fireworks.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Henry was free to remain in Puerto Rico or travel elsewhere. He also said that security in Haiti would need to be improved in order to return home.
The official said the resignation was decided on Friday.
