Chaos in Haiti: Airport Shuts Amid Gang Violence as New Prime Minister Sworn In

Haiti's airport remained closed following gang violence that erupted during the swearing-in of a new prime minister. The unrest led to a shooting incident involving a Spirit Airlines flight. The situation underscores the significant control gangs wield in the capital, Port-au-Prince, posing challenges to peace efforts.

Haiti's main airport remained closed on Tuesday after violent gang activities erupted as the new prime minister was sworn in amidst a tumultuous political transition. A Spirit Airlines flight came under fire on Monday, injuring a flight attendant and forcing flights to be suspended through Thursday. The airport's closure reflects the worsening crisis as gangs tighten their grip on the capital, Port-au-Prince.

The violence has severely disrupted daily life in the city. Schools, banks, and government offices were shut, with the usual hustle and bustle of the streets replaced by an ominous silence. Armed police in armored vehicles patrolled the area, guarding roads normally bustling with traffic now sparsely populated due to the heightened danger.

The United Nations reports that gangs control 85% of Port-au-Prince, complicating efforts to restore peace and hold elections. As the newly sworn-in interim Prime Minister, Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, promises to address these challenges, residents like Martha Jean-Pierre face hardships, struggling to sustain their livelihoods amidst the chaos.

(With inputs from agencies.)