PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) — Haiti’s newly installed transitional council chose former Sports Minister Fritz Bélizaire as the Caribbean country’s prime minister Tuesday as it presses forward in its monumental task of trying to establish a stable new government amid stifling violence.
Bélizaire replaces Michel Patrick Boisvert, the former minister of economy and finance who was the current interim prime minister. Bélizaire is little known and even some members of the council said they were unfamiliar with him.
The nine-member transitional council, seven of whom have voting rights, was choosing a new prime minister and Cabinet in a bid to help quell gang violence that is choking the capital, Port-au-Prince, and beyond. Bélizaire had the support of four of the council’s voting members.
Heavy gunfire was reported in several neighborhoods in Port-au-Prince on Tuesday, including near the National Palace, although it wasn’t immediately clear if it was in response to the unexpected announcement of a new prime minister.
Who is Abi Carter? Inside the American Idol winner's unconventional family life
Xi Story: Tackling Public Complaints Head
Xiconomics: China's Green Development Philosophy Is Contributing to Global Sustainable Growth
World Insights: How China Strives to Improve Global Human Rights Governance for a Better World
Travis Kelce downs whiskey shot on slice of bread at Kelce Jam without Taylor Swift
Golden Beach scenic area in Qingdao remains popular after National Day holiday
An encounter of elegance in Yunnan rainforest
Xi Sends Congratulatory Letter to Forum on Global Human Rights Governance
Rangers are undefeated at .500 to keep World Series champs from a losing record with Bochy
Global Development Initiative a Beacon of Hope in Turbulent World
Socialite Jasmine Hartin enjoys beach snuggle with electrician hunk
Number of South Korean visitors soars 908% in Jan.