US sanctions former Haitian president Michel Martelly for drug trafficking

By Caribbean News Global

USA / HAITI – The United States on August 20, 2024, designated former Haitian president Michel Martelly for his role in the global illicit drug trade, reported by Vedant Patel, principal deputy spokesperson, US Department of State.

“Martelly abused his influence to facilitate drug trafficking and has sponsored multiple Haiti-based gangs. Narcotics trafficking and gang-related violence have contributed to political instability and insecurity in Haiti, which has created an untenable living situation for the Haitian people,” said the US Department of State, in a press release.

“It is unacceptable for Haitian political and economic elites to plunder Haiti’s future. Today’s action demonstrates the United States’ unwavering resolve to promote accountability for all individuals whose activities contribute to gang violence and destabilize the political environment in Haiti, regardless of their rank or stature.”

Related Links:

• Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs
• Combating Drugs and Crime
• Haiti Narcotics
• Office of the Spokesperson

Policy issues – Combating drugs and crime

The United States is deeply affected by crime and violence carried out by transnational criminal organizations, including drug cartels. These actions undermine our border security, inflict harm in our communities, and threaten the stability of our allies around the world. Today, the trafficking of overseas-produced illicit fentanyl, heroin, and other opioids into the United States is fueling a national epidemic with fatal consequences. The CDC reports that US drug overdose deaths surpassed 72,000 in 2017, representing a worrying increase from the already high 2016 number. Trafficking of illicit methamphetamine, produced outside US borders, into our country is also increasing.

US-Haiti relations

When Haiti is more prosperous, secure, and firmly rooted in democracy, Haitians and Americans benefit. U.S. policy toward this close neighbour is designed to foster the institutions and infrastructure necessary to achieve strong democratic foundations and meaningful poverty reduction through sustainable development. The United States provides substantial humanitarian assistance so the most vulnerable Haitians can better meet their basic needs.

Read more about U.S.-Haiti Relations 

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