"A Transitional Presidential Council (CPT, for its French acronym) decree establishing jail time and fines for Haitian journalists and digital media distributors has set off alarm bells across the country and abroad. Advocates for an open press and freedom of expression warn the directive opens the door to expanded state control over speech — all without public debate and ahead critical elections.
The decree was quietly approved by the Council of Ministers on Dec. 18 and published in Le Moniteur on Dec. 30. Its adoption marks the first time in Haiti’s history of journalism that a decree introduces criminal penalties for press offenses, the National Association of Haitian Media (ANMH) said in a statement. At least one international advocacy group is calling for its repeal.
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In adopting the 'Decree Regulating the Exercise of Freedom of Expression and Providing for the Prevention and Punishment of Defamation and Press Offenses,' the CPT says its objective is to regulate freedom of expression and punish defamation and press offenses. While it reiterates that freedom of expression is guaranteed, the decree also restricts that freedom in the name of public order, national security, public health and human dignity — language critics say is vague enough to invite abuse."
