Haiti has hired Carlos Trujillo’s lobbying firm to enhance its U.S. profile and trade, while Guyana seeks to solidify its international relations amid territorial disputes. Trujillo registered both contracts simultaneously. Guyana’s objectives are clear, but Haiti’s lobbying strategy lacks definition, reflecting ongoing instability and uncertainty in its political landscape.
The Haitian government has engaged Carlos Trujillo, a former Republican congressman and Trump’s ambassador to the Organization of American States, through his firm Continental Strategy. This lobbying contract, worth $35,000 per month for a year, aims to enhance Haiti’s profile in the U.S., boost trade, and address financial improvements. This agreement was signed on February 7 and filed on February 24.
On the same day as filing for Haiti, Trujillo also registered as a lobbyist for Guyana, which is addressing ongoing territorial disputes with Venezuela and has signed a contract worth $50,000 per month for six months. Former Guyanese President Bharrat Jagdeo indicated the importance of maintaining favorable U.S. trade relations amid these challenges.
While Guyana’s government has articulated its lobbying goals, Haiti’s intentions remain unclear. Authorities have not communicated their expectations from Trujillo’s firm as the U.S. government is rumored to be tightening foreign aid and altering immigration policy. Sauveur Pierre Étienne, a Haitian political figure, criticized the absence of a defined lobbying strategy.
Étienne emphasized that any engagement with lobbyists should clearly state objectives, such as the need for U.S. military support to address security concerns. Julio Volcy, a pastor and civil society member, echoed these sentiments, suggesting that the government’s ability to lead is questionable given the lack of progress on critical issues.
As Haiti continues to face a political and security crisis with violence escalating, the Transitional Presidential Council has not effectively restored order. The recent leadership transition indicates the ongoing turmoil, with rising gang control and more than a million people displaced within the country. Consequently, the feasibility of holding scheduled elections remains doubtful, leaving uncertainty about the transition’s future management.
Both Haiti and Guyana have engaged the same lobbying firm, Continental Strategy, to address their respective political and economic needs in the U.S. However, while Guyana has clarified its goals, Haiti’s objectives from this partnership remain vague. The political situation in Haiti is deteriorating, worsening security and stability, thereby complicating the potential for future elections and effective governance.
Original Source: www.miamiherald.com
