[Yon Zouti Koupe Series - Ep. #71] Haiti's Descent: Comparing Duvalier's Order to Today's Disorder. A Monthly Conversation w/ Dr. Robert Fatton, Jr.

Bonjou, and welcome to another riveting episode of the Nèg Mawon Podcast, where we dive deep into the heart of Haitian politics, society, and the continuous struggles that shape our nation. I'm your host, Patrick Jean-Baptiste, and today, you're tuning in to the new series for 2024, 'Yon Zouti Koupe-Ep.#71.'

In this episode, we're grappling with the intense and complex currents ripping through our beloved Haiti. The youth, the beating heart of our country, are rallying behind a figure of change—a mysterious entity known as Guy Phillipe, yet many don't quite grasp the full breadth of his historical roots or ultimate agenda.

Amid rampant inflation, suffocating insecurity, and the scourge of gang violence leading to widespread displacement, a cry for revolution echoes again through the streets. However, Guy's plan and power base remain enigmatic, adding layers of uncertainty to an already volatile mix.

The government stares down a formidable challenge not just from Guy's armed supporters, but a myriad of factions and unforeseen possibilities that loom on the horizon.

And in an unusual twist, discussions of potential Kenyan intervention stir the pot further, but doubts loom over the viability and legality of such a mission, given the complexity of our country's gang situation.

But at the heart of this lies a deeper issue—the achingly pervasive poverty and limited rungs of social mobility that fuel gang affiliations. To truly combat this, we must address the socioeconomic roots and offer our youth alternative pathways, while at the same time using trusted force of arms to eliminate the pervasive presence of the gangs.

Joining me today to peel back the layers of this multifaceted crisis is Haiti's greatest political scientist, Dr. Robert Fatton, who'll share his insights into the dire state of our national police force, the evolving autonomy of Haitian gangs, and the economic paralysis gripping our society.

We'll also explore the duality of nostalgia for past dictatorships against the backdrop of the ongoing violence and the persistent dream of economic stability.

So stay tuned as we confront these pressing issues and more—right here on Nèg Mawon Podcast.