U.S. Sanctions Former Haitian President Michel Martelly for Drug Trafficking

U.S. Sanctions Former President Michel Martelly of Haiti

The United States has officially imposed sanctions on former Haitian President Michel Martelly, citing his involvement in drug trafficking and money laundering. This announcement was made through a statement by the U.S. Treasury Department on Tuesday, highlighting Martelly’s role in exacerbating the instability and unrest that has plagued Haiti.

Michel Martelly, who held the presidential office from 2011 until 2016, is accused of leveraging his political influence to facilitate the trafficking of dangerous narcotics, including cocaine, destined for the United States. The Treasury Department’s statement also indicated that he has been involved in sponsoring numerous gangs based in Haiti.

“Today’s action against Martelly emphasizes the significant and destabilizing role he and other corrupt political elites have played in perpetuating the ongoing crisis in Haiti,” stated Bradley T. Smith, the acting under secretary for terrorism and financial intelligence.

During his presidency, the administration of the 63-year-old musician, popularly known as “Sweet Micky,” faced severe allegations of corruption. These claims included the misappropriation of approximately $2 billion in aid from Venezuela, although he has never been formally charged in Haiti for these infractions.

In 2022, the Canadian government also sanctioned Martelly, accusing him of benefiting from armed gangs, which further tarnished his reputation on the international stage. A recent United Nations sanctions report released in September 2023 specifically named Martelly for political corruption and his connections to gang activities. The report detailed that during his time in office, he strategically utilized gangs to bolster his influence within neighborhoods, thereby advancing his political agenda and contributing to a lasting legacy of insecurity that continues to affect the nation today.