Haiti’s transitional government’s possible deal with Blackwater sparks public hope and fear

PORT-AU-PRINCE — As reports circulate about a possible contract between Haiti’s transitional government and American private military firm Blackwater, led by former Navy SEAL Erik Prince, residents are expressing a mixture of feelings. Many Haitians just want restored order, no matter who provides it.

“Even if they went to get the devil himself, as long as he brings security, I have no problem,” said a three-wheeled motorcycle-taxi driver on Delmas Road. He and a passenger behind him, who both chose to remain anonymous due to privacy concerns, reacted to the news on the morning of May 29 as they shared a ride on the road.  

“As long as they don’t shoot at me or innocent Haitians, but target the bandits, I’m fine with it,” the driver said. 

“I just want to be able to move freely, go wherever I want. Whether it’s ten at night or midnight, I want to be out in my country without fearing for my life,” he added after the passenger responded: “Me too, I just want security. I don’t care who provides it, as long as they truly restore order in the country.”  

The government has not confirmed the rumored agreement, first reported by The New York Times, and officials remain tight-lipped. Yet, public debate is intensifying. Some residents say they welcome any effort to restore peace, even from controversial foreign contractors like Blackwater. Others, however, urge caution and transparency, citing the company’s dark history in countries like Iraq and calling for reinforcement of national forces.

Artisan Stanley Raphael, whose business in Pétion-Ville has suffered due to insecurity, said, “I do not reject the decision made by the authorities. If the mercenaries truly bring a solution, I am not against it.”

“But with that money, we could buy equipment to strengthen our own forces and confront the challenges we are facing in Haiti,” he added.