WASHINGTON, United States (CMC) — The United States (US) has reaffirmed its support for Haitian Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimè after he assumed leadership of the interim government in the country following the end of the mandate of the Provisional Transitional Council (CPT) last Saturday.

“The United States takes note of the peaceful transfer of power by the coordinator of the Provisional Transitional Council (CPT), Laurent Saint-Cyr, to Prime Minister Fils-Aimé and the council of ministers, acting in an interim capacity to prepare for the general elections in Haiti,” Washington said in a statement posted by the US Embassy in Haiti.

Washington said that it is ready to work with the prime minister and the council of ministers to “achieve our common priority, which is stabilising Haiti”.

“We recognise the responsibility of the authorities called upon to guide the country at a crucial moment and emphasise the importance of efforts made by Haitians themselves to restore stability, strengthen security and advance the aspirations of the Haitian people.

“As Secretary Rubio stressed, sustainable progress in Haiti depends on responsible governance, improved security conditions and a supported international partnership in favour of Haiti’s sovereignty. The United States remains committed to working alongside Haitian leaders and regional partners to contribute to stabilising Haiti,” the statement added.

The CPT was established in April 2024 to restore political stability, address the security crisis caused by powerful armed gangs and facilitate a transition of power following the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry.

The nine-member council was created to select a new prime minister and cabinet, and to prepare for and oversee the nation’s next elections, which are planned for early 2026.  Since April 2024, Haiti has held no national elections.

It left office last Saturday with its tenure marred by infighting, poor governance and paralysis, as well as persistent allegations of influence peddling, corruption, collusion with armed gangs and of diverting public resources for personal gain.

Although there is broad agreement between Haiti’s civil and political leaders that the CPT should step down, a consensus ‍has yet to emerge over what structure should replace it.

“We need to put our personal interest to the side and continue progress for security,” Saint-Cyr said in a statement on Saturday, adding that the council of ministers “under the direction of the prime minister will take charge”.

In a weekend address to the country, Fils-Aimé recalled that February 7 embodies republican continuity, popular sovereignty and the irreversible aspiration of the Haitian people to live in freedom, security and dignity.

“The time for coming together has come. The state is reclaiming its place. Life must go on. Haiti will not perish,” he said, as he commended the efforts and sacrifices made by the CPT members during nearly two “extremely complex” years, while acknowledging that the transition remains incomplete, particularly due to persistent insecurity and the impossibility of holding elections within the initially planned timeframe.