Haiti’s Divided Transitional Council Picks New President

HAITI – Haiti’s transitional presidential council transferred the rotating presidency to architect Leslie Voltaire despite opposition from outgoing President Edgard Leblanc Fils, who refused to sign a decree ratifying the move.

Leblanc fils had opposed the move citing unresolved corruption accusations against three other councillors who remain voting members and signed off on the transition.

The rift at the council creates fresh uncertainty in a country still reeling from the gang massacre of at least 70 people last week, with Prime Minister Garry Conille seeking security assistance abroad.