OAS warns Haiti needs help as it prepares to hold elections for the first time since 2016

The secretary general of the Organization of American States says that Haiti needs help fighting gangs and seizing back territory as it prepares to hold general elections for the first time in more than a decadeByThe Associated PressAugust 19, 2026, 12:35 PMPORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti -- Albert Ramdin, secretary general of the Organization of American States, said Wednesday during a trip to Haiti that the country needs help fighting gangs and seizing back territory as it prepares to hold general elections for the first time in more than a decade.Ramdin spoke as he concluded a trip to the troubled Caribbean country, where he met with the prime minister and other officials.He said the new U.N.-backed gang suppression force needs more personnel, equipment and funding.“The efforts of the (force) are essential to improving security and public safety, and to creating the conditions for a safe electoral process,” he said. “Progress must be visible and measurable as soon as possible.”Ramdin said priorities are securing the main route to the main international airport; ensuring ongoing access to the airport and seaport; and restoring safe access to Haiti’s southern region. Gangs currently control...