Armed individuals belonging to the Vivre Ensemble (Living Together) coalition shook the center of Haiti’s capital this Tuesday, attacking the main public hospital in Port-au-Prince and killing at least two journalists and a police officer, an event that the authorities have promised will not go unpunished.
“This hateful act, directed against an institution dedicated to health and life, constitutes an unacceptable attack against the very foundations of our society,” declared the Government in a statement in which it reacted firmly to the attack perpetrated against the capital’s main hospital, prior to the reopening ceremony of the place.
The statement added that “in the face of this barbarism, the Government reiterates its unwavering commitment to restore order and bring to justice the perpetrators of this crime. in which seven journalists were also injured.
“Technical teams and law enforcement are working tirelessly to make this strategic center work again,” according to the note, by ensuring that medical personnel and victims will receive support and protection during this “difficult period”, to guarantee that this vital center can once again serve the population.
It is urgent to reinforce critical infrastructures
This attack highlights the need to strengthen the security of critical infrastructure throughout the country. The Government is committed to taking all necessary measures to protect sensitive institutions and prevent similar acts in the future, authorities considered.
“The Government calls for vigilance and solidarity among citizens. In the face of these challenges, It is imperative that we remain united and reject any form of fear or despair. Together, we will restore serenity and guarantee respect for fundamental rights,” the information reads.
“The upcoming safe reopening of the Haitian State University Hospital will be tangible proof of the Government’s determination to defend the interests of the population and to fight relentlessly against the forces of chaos. Justice will be done and hope will triumph,” concluded the release.
Sadness in health authorities
The pain and desolation were evident on the faces of the authorities of the Ministry of Public Health, who held a press conference tonight. At the beginning of the press conference, a minute of silence was observed in honor of the victims.
The Minister of Health, Duckenslichen Lorthe Blema, expressed his solidarity with all the victims of the tragedy that occurred today at the General Hospital.
“Like the president of the Presidential Transition Council, Leslie Voltaire, the Ministry of Public Health condemns these criminal acts with all its might, because they have attacked our fundamental right to life, health and security,” said the official with a broken voice.
In his opinion, today should be a day of hope for the Haitian people. A people that suffers from many diseases and that fights every day to find the health care they deserve with dignity. He admits that the work is not easy, but he believes it has to be done.
He recalled that every Haitian has the right to health care, and stated that he will not stop working to guarantee this right. For him, this is one of his two great objectives as the new Minister of Health.
“Law enforcement agencies have assured the ministry that all measures will be taken to guarantee the reopening of the general hospital,” declared the minister, calling on all parties to assume their responsibilities.
Source: https://www.noticiascaracol.com/mundo/ataque-de-pandillas-en-hospital-de-haiti-dejo-al-menos-a-un-policia-y-dos-periodistas-muertos-cb20
