US Senate Confirms New Ambassador To Troubled Haiti
The United States Senate, in a bipartisan move, officially approved Dennis Hankins, a seasoned career diplomat, to serve as the US ambassador to Haiti amid a backdrop of rampant violence threatening to destabilize the nation’s social fabric.
The confirmation, confirmed by a resounding 89 to 1 vote, underscores the urgency felt by key policymakers to address the escalating crisis gripping Haiti, particularly in its capital, Port-au-Prince, which has witnessed a surge in organized gang assaults targeting law enforcement and government institutions.Â
With the absence of a resident ambassador since 2021, the need for a comprehensive assessment of the situation on the ground has been paramount, as highlighted by senators involved in Haitian policy discussions with CNN.
The prevailing turmoil has triggered mass displacement, compelling tens of thousands to abandon their residences, and prompted several foreign embassies, including those of the United States, Germany, and the European Union, to evacuate their personnel from Haiti.
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Additionally, to bolster security measures, a specialized unit of US Marines focused on counterterrorism has been deployed to safeguard the US embassy, which will continue its operations with a narrowed focus on assisting American citizens and supporting indigenous efforts aimed at achieving a peaceful transition of governmental power, as stated by the US Southern Command.
Hankins’ confirmation arrives amidst the announcement by Haiti’s Prime Minister Ariel Henry of his impending resignation, signaling a further shakeup in the country’s leadership structure amidst weeks of tumult.
President Joe Biden put forth Hankins’ nomination back in May 2023, recognizing his extensive diplomatic tenure spanning nearly four decades, including prior service in Haiti earlier in his career, as well as ambassadorial roles in Mali and Guinea.
The vacancy left by Michele Sison, who departed the position in October 2021 to assume responsibilities as the assistant secretary of state for international organizational affairs, paved the way for Hankins’ appointment to this critical diplomatic post.
US Senate Confirms New Ambassador To Troubled Haiti
