The endless violence continues to ravage Haiti, and especially its capital, Port-au-Prince. Last weekend, by the orders of Monel Felix, a gang leader, at least 100 people, primarily voodoo practitioners, were killed. This was fueled by the belief of the gang leader that voodoo practitioners were responsible for the illness and death of his son on December 7.

Overall, the number of victims of the violence over the weekend reaches at least 184, according to the UN Human Rights Commissioner for Haiti, Volker Türk.

“Last weekend alone, at least 184 people were killed in the Haitian capital Port-au-Prince in acts of violence carried out on the orders of a powerful gang leader in the Cité-Soleil district,”

the commissioner said. With this latest massacre, the number of victims of violence this year surpassed 5,000. Amid the ongoing senseless bloodshed, Haitian bishops renewed their appeal for peace, calling for the end of violence and addressing gang members as well.

“Stop these cruel acts. They are not good for the country, nor for the people, nor for you who commit them.”

The bishops also addressed the authorities and the international community in their message. They urged an end to the arms trade that allows the violence to continue. They also proposed a Jubilee Year, starting on December 29, with the motto “Pilgrims of Hope.” The bishops invited all Haitians not to be discouraged by the situation but to be the witnesses of hope.

Source: Agenzia Fides

Photo: FMT