- Garry Conille was appointed as the new Prime Minister of Haiti by the Transitional Council
- Conille has a background in medicine and international development, including serving as Chief of Staff to former President Bill Clinton in his role as UN Special Envoy to Haiti
- Haiti has been grappling with political instability, economic challenges, and governance issues
In a significant political development, Garry Conille has been appointed as the new Prime Minister of Haiti by the country's nine-member transitional council.
Conille's appointment comes at a critical juncture for the nation, which has been grappling with political instability and economic challenges.
His ascension to the role brings a mix of hope and skepticism, as the nation looks to navigate through its myriad of crises.
Background and credentials
Garry Conille is not a newcomer to the political and humanitarian landscape. Born on February 26, 1968, in Port-au-Prince, he has a distinguished background in medicine and international development.
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Conille is a medical doctor by training, having earned his degree from the State University of Haiti majoring in obstetrics and gynaecology.
He furthered his education with a Master’s degree in Public Health, Health Policy and Health administration between 1998 and 1999.
His international experience is noteworthy, having served in various capacities within the United Nations.
Conille was the Chief of Staff to former President Bill Clinton in his role as the UN Special Envoy to Haiti, a position that put him at the forefront of post-earthquake reconstruction efforts following the devastating 2010 earthquake.
Until his appointment, Conille served as the UNICEF regional director for Latin America and Caribbeans.
This role provided him with invaluable experience in international diplomacy, crisis management, and development coordination.
Highlight of Colline's career with the UN:
- Regional Director, UNICEF Latin America and Caribbean, Jan 2023 - Present
- Adjunct Faculty, Columbia University in the City of New York, Feb 2007 - Present
- UN Resident Coordinator, Multi-Country Office in Jamaica, Sep 2020 - Nov 2022
- UN Resident Coordinator, Burundi, Jan 2019 - Aug 2020
- UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative, Burundi, May 2017 - Dec 2018
- Under Secretary General, Programme and Operations, International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, Oct 2015 - Jun 2017
- Director, Africa Regional Office, UNOPS, Jan 2014 - Sep 2015
- Advisor to President of Liberia, UNDP, Sep 2012 - Nov 2013
- Prime Minister, Government of Haiti, Oct 2011 - May 2012
- UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative, UNDP, Jun 2011 - Sep 2011
- Chief of Staff, Office of the Special Envoy for Haiti, United Nations, Mar 2010 - Jun 2011
- Team Leader, MDG Support Unit, UNDP, Sep 2008 - Mar 2010
- Regional Advisor for Africa, UNFPA, Feb 2007 - Sep 2008
Political journey
Conille's political journey is marked by his brief stint as Prime Minister in 2011-2012 under President Michel Martelly.
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His tenure, however, was short-lived due to political disagreements and challenges in navigating the complex Haitian political landscape.
Despite this, his return as Prime Minister signifies a second chance to influence Haiti's future positively.
Challenges ahead
As Prime Minister, Garry Conille faces a daunting array of challenges. Haiti is still reeling from the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021, an event that plunged the country into deeper political turmoil.
The nation has struggled with governance issues, with a lack of stable leadership exacerbating problems such as corruption, gang violence, and economic stagnation.
One of the immediate tasks for Conille will be to restore political stability and order. This involves not only managing the legislative and executive branches of government but also fostering dialogue and cooperation among various political factions.
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The establishment of a legitimate and effective government is crucial for addressing the broader issues facing the nation.
Economic recovery
Economic recovery is another critical area that Conille must address. Haiti remains one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere, with high levels of unemployment and poverty.
International relations
Navigating international relations will be crucial for Conille's administration. Haiti relies heavily on international aid and partnerships.
Rebuilding trust and securing support from international partners, including the United States and neighbouring Caribbean nations, will be vital for Conille's government. His previous roles in international organizations could aid in fostering these relationships.
His appointment also comes just days before a multinational force that will include 1,000 Kenyan police officers and others drawn from Jamaica, the Bahamas, Antigua and Barbuda and other countries lands in the country to restore order.
READ: Ruto reveals timeline for deployment of police officers to Haiti
President William Ruto's message to the new Prime Minister of Haiti
Following his appointment, President William Ruto congratulated the new Haiti PM and expressed readiness to work with him in restoring order in the country.
"On behalf of the Republic and People of Kenya, I extend congratulations to Hon. Garry Conille on his appointment as the Prime Minister of Haiti.
"Kenya expresses its strong solidarity with Haiti, as we look forward to working with you and your government to restore Haiti to a path of sustainable development," said Ruto.
Before Conille, Haiti was under a nine-member Transitional council following the resignation of Ariel Henry in April 2024.