Haiti’s news cycle on January 20, 2025, was a whirlwind of events, from the resolution of a teachers’ strike to violent mob justice, gang attacks, and significant political appointments.
These stories highlight the nation’s ongoing struggles and moments of progress. Here’s a detailed look at Haiti daily headlines for today January 21, 2025.
Teachers’ Strike Ends, Schools to Reopen
The Haitian government announced a breakthrough agreement with striking teachers, ending a protest that had disrupted public schools for several days.
The deal includes commitments to address unpaid salaries, regularize employment statuses, and provide a one-time payment of 15,000 gourdes to teachers and education staff starting in February 2025.
This resolution is expected to allow students to return to classrooms soon, offering a glimmer of hope for Haiti’s struggling education system.
Chaos in Kafou: School Protests Turn Violent
In Kafou, a student-led protest turned violent as several schools were vandalized. A group of high school students took to the streets, creating widespread disorder.
Private school associations and parent groups condemned the violence, while others criticized the government for failing to address the root causes of the unrest.
Mob Justice Claims Former Police Officer’s Life
In a shocking incident in Ti Goâve, former police officer Jerry Anderson Lecompte was brutally killed by a mob. Lecompte had been dismissed for alleged ties to criminal activities.
He was also accused of involvement in the assassination of journalist Richkarede Cribe in December 2023. The mob attacked him with rocks and sticks. His body was dragged through the streets in a horrifying display of mob justice.
The violence erupted after a local resident was shot and killed on the night of January 19. Residents accused one of Lecompte’s supporters of the shooting.
The shooter fled to Lecompte’s house, where Lecompte refused to hand him over to the angry crowd. In retaliation, the mob set Lecompte’s house on fire. Police from the UDMO unit intervened, arresting Lecompte before the crowd could kill him.
U.S. Embassy Targeted Again in Port-au-Prince
A gardener working at the U.S. Embassy housing complex in Port-au-Prince was injured during an armed attack on an embassy vehicle. This marks the second attack on U.S. Embassy property in three months, highlighting the growing insecurity in the area.
According to the Miami Herald, the victim was working with other employees when armed bandits attacked them in Tabarre, where the embassy housing is located.
Gang Violence Claims Lives in Gwomòn
Over the weekend, gang violence in Gwomòn left 10 people dead and four others injured. The attacks, carried out by the Kokorat San Ras gang, targeted the communities of Kanpèch and Grèpen, leaving residents in shock and fear. Local authorities, including Mayor Hubert Senejak, expressed concern over the escalating violence.
Memorial Honors Fallen Police Officers
A memorial service was held to honor four police officers killed by gang violence in January 2023. The ceremony, which included a Requiem Mass, paid tribute to their sacrifice. Sister Constance Lanpè, in her remarks, praised the officers for giving their lives to ensure the safety and security of the population.
New Appointments in Government
In political news, former deputy Sinal Bertrand has been named the new Minister of Public Health and Population, replacing Dr. Dikenson Blema Lortie. Additionally, 10 departmental delegates and 42 vice-delegates were appointed.
Notable appointments include Ivanson Herilus as the new delegate for Latibonit, Espérance Bérard retaining her position in Nippes, and Andy Métellus appointed in the West.
U.S. Immigration Policy Updates Impact Haitians
On the international front, U.S. President Donald Trump officially began his second term, signing a series of immigration decrees.
These include measures that could allow nearly a million migrants, including many from Haiti and Venezuela, to enter the U.S. legally and obtain work permits. However, thousands remain stranded at the Mexico-U.S. border amid ongoing policy changes.
Haiti’s daily headlines reflect a nation grappling with both progress and persistent challenges. From the resolution of the teachers’ strike to the tragic violence in Ti Goâve and Gwomòn, these events underscore the urgent need for stability and reform.
Stay informed about Haiti’s evolving story—share your thoughts and join the conversation about the nation’s future.
