Haiti's crisis and the notorious Influence of 'Barbecue'

A former police officer turned gang leader, Barbecue earned his nickname during his time on the police force, supposedly for his involvement in incidents where homes were set ablaze. 

He has become a symbol of power and resistance within Haiti’s gang-ridden society, leading the G9 Family and Allies, a coalition of gangs that control large parts of Port-au-Prince and beyond.

Cherizier’s transition from a law enforcer to a gang leader marked a pivotal moment in Haiti’s security landscape. Known for his brazen and often violent tactics, Barbecue emerged as a powerful figure who claims to be fighting for the rights of the impoverished. 

However, critics argue that his control over territories has led to increased violence, kidnappings, and a dire humanitarian situation. 

The United Nations has reported significant spikes in killings, sexual assaults, and other crimes attributed to gang activities, with Barbecue and his allies often at the centre of these incidents.

The influence of gangs like Barbecue’s has led to international intervention efforts, including a deployment of Kenyan police forces under a Multinational Security Support Mission. 

Barbecue vehemently opposed this involvement, citing that any forces would be considered as opposition. 

"If the Kenyan military or police come, whatsoever, I will consider them aggressors," Barbecue said in a Sky News interview in March 2024.

He emphasized that any foreign force would be seen as an invasion of Haiti's sovereignty, drawing comparisons to the Haitian Revolution’s fight for independence. 

Barbecue further accused the involvement of foreign powers, particularly the United States of orchestrating political moves in Haiti, suggesting that these interventions are not in the best interest of the Haitian people.

While Barbecue portrays himself as a defender of the underprivileged, many politicians and citizens view him differently.

One Haitian politician remarked, "Barbecue is not a freedom fighter; he is a man who has terrorized communities for his gain. His talk of liberation does not match the fear he instils in our streets."   

The politician’s statement reflects a broader sentiment among Haitians who have suffered due to the ongoing gang conflicts, with many calling for decisive action to restore peace and order.

As Kenya prepares to lead an international effort to stabilize Haiti, questions remain about the future role of gangs like the G9. 

Recently, Barbecue hinted at a willingness to tame his gang’s activities, stating that they would remain in their base to allow normalcy to return to the city. 

This move could signify a shift, but skepticism persists about his intentions and the real possibility of peace without a comprehensive approach to the deep-rooted issues in Haiti.

The Kenyan-led mission aims to bring stability by reducing the power of gangs, including Barbecue’s.

However, this mission may face significant challenges, and its success will depend on how effectively it addresses not only the immediate security concerns but also the political dynamics that fuel Haiti’s crisis.