The judge leading the investigation into the July 2021 assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse has issued indictments against several prominent figures, including the late president's widow, Martine Moïse, ex-prime minister Claude Joseph, and former chief of Haiti's National Police, Léon Charles.
According to a report obtained on Monday, the indictments come amidst Haiti's ongoing struggle with a surge in gang violence and efforts to recover from violent protests demanding the resignation of current Prime Minister Ariel Henry.
The 122-page report, issued by Judge Walther Wesser Voltaire, reveals dozens of suspects implicated in the assassination. Voltaire is the fifth judge to lead the investigation, following the resignation of previous judges due to various concerns, including fear for their safety.
Léon Charles, who held the position of police chief at the time of President Moïse's killing and currently serves as Haiti's permanent representative to the Organization of the American States, faces serious charges such as murder, attempted murder, illegal possession of weapons, conspiracy against the internal security of the state, and criminal association.
Former prime minister Claude Joseph and Martine Moïse, who sustained injuries during the attack, are accused of complicity and criminal association. However, Martine Moïse's attorney did not respond to requests for comment, and Léon Charles could not be reached immediately.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, Claude Joseph, in a statement to The Associated Press, accused Prime Minister Ariel Henry of undermining the investigation and taking advantage of the president's death. Joseph claimed that Henry is manipulating the Haitian justice system to prosecute political opponents, labeling it a "classic coup d'état."
Joseph reiterated his call for Henry's resignation and highlighted his efforts during his tenure as prime minister when he invited the FBI to assist in the investigation and sought help from international organizations such as the U.N. and OAS.
"I won't stop my fight. Justice must be served," Joseph declared, emphasizing the need for a fair and impartial resolution to the unfolding events in Haiti.
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