In response to Wednesday’s assassination of the Haitian president Jovenel Moïse by unidentified attackers at his private residence, the government of Canada has issued a travel advisory to Haiti.
Moïse’s wife Martine was also shot and is receiving medical attention. Haiti is now threatened with a crisis not only over who will succeed Moïse, but also their surging COVID-19 rates, for which they have received no vaccines yet.
Haitian authorities have declared a state of siege for the next 15 days.
“During this period, security forces have increased rights to conduct searches and seizures, and to detain persons of interest. Some civil rights have been suspended, including the right to protest and to hold large gatherings. Curfews may also be imposed without notice,” the GoC travel advisory reads.
As well, activities at the Toussaint Louverture International Airport have been suspended and the border with the Dominican Republic closed.
Canada recommends that any Canadians already in Haiti should limit their movements, comply with the instructions from security forces, monitor local media to stay informed on the evolving situation, avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place, and follow the instructions of local authorities.
The Canadian government has banned all non-essential travel anywhere outside of Canada due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
