Up First from NPR The Sunday Story: On the Ground in Haiti
Jun 30, 2024
Eyder Peralta, NPR's correspondent, shares his gripping experiences from Haiti, where gang violence reigns and the government is in disarray. He vividly recounts a dangerous encounter with gang leader Barbecue, shedding light on the complex dynamics of power and desperation. Eyder delves into Haitians’ skepticism about international interventions, reflecting on a painful history of failed promises. Throughout the chaos, he also highlights a remarkable resilience among the people, revealing their unyielding spirit amidst turmoil.
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Entering Haiti
- Eyder Peralta, unable to enter Haiti by land due to gang roadblocks, flew to Cap-Haitien.
- From there, a private helicopter took him to Port-au-Prince, landing on a golf course in the wealthy Pétionville district.
Bodies in the Streets
- Despite the armored SUV and seeming normalcy, Peralta encountered bodies left in the streets.
- One body, an older woman seeking medical help, lay near a clinic, highlighting the city's breakdown.
Roots of the Crisis
- Haiti's current crisis stems from the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse and the subsequent power struggle.
- The de facto Prime Minister, Ariel Henry, delayed elections, fueling unrest and gang empowerment.