Haitian authorities said today they have arrested 23 people, including a Supreme Court justice, in connection with a plot to overthrow the government and the murder of President Moisés, worsening political tensions in the Caribbean nation.
Reuters and AFP reported that Haitian Prime Minister Joseph Jouthe said at a press conference at his private residence that the 23 people arrested by police included a high-ranking police officer and recovered guns, ammunition, money and related documents.
Jouthe also said the documents included a speech by the arrested judge, who was planning to become the interim leader of the transitional government.
Jutse said, “These people had contacted security personnel at the State House (presidential palace), and those senior officers at the State House were tasked with arresting the president… and assisting the inauguration of the new president. And to assist in the inauguration of the new president.
Haitian Justice Minister Rockefeller Vincent described the plot as a “coup attempt.
President Jovenel Moise said at the airport in the capital, Port-au-Prince, that the conspirators aimed to take my Life. He also thanked the head of security at his residence for keeping him safe.
Opposition leaders had announced plans this week to replace Moyes with a new head of state, accusing him of dictatorship and of running Haiti’s economy into the ground under his rule.
Anti-government protesters clashed with police in Port-au-Prince earlier today, and police used tear gas. Street protests were also seen in several other towns.
The opposition’s plan is to ask members of civil society and leaders of the opposition camp to elect a sitting Supreme Court justice as the new president, rather than wait until the September general election.
Moise, who has ruled by fiat since mid-January, previously stated he would hand over power to the election winner, but he would not step down until after his term ends in 2022.
The U.S. government urged the parties concerned to resolve the crisis, while stressing that Moisés should be succeeded by a newly elected president when his term ends on Feb. 2, 2022.
Moishe also plans to hold a referendum on constitutional amendments in April, the opposition is concerned that this vote will not be free and fair, fearing that Moishe will gain more power.
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