Haiti once again stands at a defining moment in its history. The three days of structured dialogue beginning February 7, 2026, signal something rare in our political life: an attempt at consensus rather than confrontation. The proposal of a triumvirate—composed of a representative of the Presidential Transitional Council (CPT), a member of the Court of Cassation, and a civil society delegate—reflects a sincere effort to restore institutional balance and credibility.
But if we are honest with ourselves, balance between established institutions is not enough. Haiti’s crisis is not only institutional; it is profoundly generational.
More than 60% of Haiti’s population is under 30. The majority of those affected by insecurity, unemployment, forced migration, and political instability are young people. Yet historically, youth have been invited to applaud transitions—not to shape them. If this transition truly intends to “change the course,” it must go further.
It must formally establish a Youth President within the executive structure.
Why a Youth President?
The proposal for a bicephalous executive—a President and a Prime Minister—is grounded in constitutional pragmatism. However, the current moment demands innovation anchored in democratic inclusion. A Youth President would not replace constitutional authority. Rather, this role would:
· Serve as the institutional voice of citizens aged 15–35.
· Oversee and coordinate youth policy, education reform, civic engagement, and national service programs.
· Participate with a deliberative voice in executive councils on security, employment, and electoral preparation.
· Guarantee structured youth representation at communal, departmental, and national levels.
Haiti cannot continue designing transitions about youth without designing them with youth.
Stability Requires Legitimate Representation
The triumvirate model shows political maturity. But lasting stability will not come from balance among elites alone. It will come from legitimacy. And legitimacy today depends on whether young Haitians believe this transition belongs to them.
The proposed executive could therefore consist of:
· President of the Republic – Ensuring sovereignty, constitutional order, and international relations.
· Prime Minister – Managing technocratic governance and public administration.
· President for Youth Affairs – Institutionalizing generational leadership and driving civic participation.
This structure would not weaken the state. It would strengthen it by aligning political authority with demographic reality.
Security and Democracy Are Inextricably Linked to Youth Inclusion
No sustainable security strategy can succeed without youth engagement. No credible elections can be organized if first-time voters feel alienated. No economic recovery can occur while educated young Haitians continue to leave the country.
A Youth President, selected through a transparent national consultative process, would symbolize a decisive break from the culture of exclusion that has fueled our cycles of instability.
If February 7, 2026, marks a new political phase, let it also mark the beginning of an irreversible generational renewal.
The Real Test of This Transition
The criteria outlined for presidential and prime ministerial candidates—integrity, patriotism, competence, neutrality—are commendable. But these values must also guide our structural design.
Haiti’s future will not be decided solely by those who have governed before. It will be shaped by those who must live longest with the consequences.
A Youth President within the executive branch would not be symbolic tokenism. It would be an act of strategic governance and national survival.
The nation does not simply need a new transition.
It needs a new covenant between generations.
May democracy advance.
May security prevail.
And may Haiti rise—together.
Kridikel Truthbey Desir
Political Analyst
Global Youth Council – Jen Ayisyen
