Haiti and Guyana have contracted lobbyist Carlos Trujillo, with Haiti paying $35,000 per month and Guyana $50,000 per month, to enhance their positions in the U.S. Guyana has outlined specific goals related to trade, while Haiti has not clarified its objectives, raising concerns about transparency and efficacy in governmental dealings amidst ongoing political turmoil and security challenges.
Haiti has engaged the services of prominent lobbyist Carlos Trujillo, a former Republican congressman and Trump’s ambassador to the Organization of American States. Trujillo’s lobbying firm, Continental Strategy, has entered into a contract worth $35,000 monthly for one year, aiming to enhance Haiti’s position in the U.S. by boosting trade, investment, and addressing financial improvements. The contract was signed by Prime Minister Alix-Dider Fils-Aimé and filed shortly after Haiti aligned with the U.S. in a significant United Nations vote.
Guyana has similarly contracted Trujillo’s firm for $50,000 monthly for six months, amid ongoing territorial disputes with Venezuela. Former President and current Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo emphasized the necessity of U.S. engagement to maintain favorable trade conditions. While Guyana has articulated its objectives for the lobbying assistance, Haiti’s government has not publicly specified its goals under the new arrangement.
Critics in Haiti, including Sauveur Pierre Étienne, argue that without clear objectives, the government may merely be advancing its own interests. Étienne underscores the importance of establishing a dialogue regarding security cooperation and equipment essential for combating local gangs. Pastor Julio Volcy questions the current transitional government’s ability to lead effectively, suggesting the lobbying agreement should be scrutinized and possibly revoked due to the lack of tangible benefits for citizens.
Haiti’s political landscape remains fraught with challenges. The transitional governing body, formed amidst increasing gang violence and political turmoil, has struggled and is impeded by corruption and infighting. As Haiti prepares to appoint another transitional president, Fritz Alphonse Jean, the environment remains unstable, with more than a million individuals displaced due to gang activity. Given this backdrop, timely elections and effective governance appear increasingly elusive as the ongoing crisis deepens.
In summary, both Haiti and Guyana have sought the assistance of the same lobbying firm, underlining their respective needs for U.S. engagement amid complex geopolitical and domestic challenges. While Guyana has articulated its lobbying objectives clearly, Haiti’s lack of transparency raises concerns among critics about the motivations behind this contract. As Haiti continues to navigate a precarious political landscape marked by security issues and displacement, the efficacy of such lobbying efforts remains to be seen.
Original Source: www.miamiherald.com
