President of Haiti Jovenel Moise, was early Wednesday morning, assassinated at his home by unknown gunmen.
Moise had ruled Haiti, the poorest country in America, by decree, after legislative elections in 2018 were delayed in the wake of disputes.
In addition to the political chaos, kidnappings for ransom have surged in recent months, reflecting the growing influence of armed gangs in the country.
Haiti also faces chronic poverty and recurrent natural disasters.
The assassination was announced by the interim Prime Minister Claude Joseph.
Joseph said he was now in charge of the country.
He also disclosed that Moise’s wife was seriously wounded and was receiving treatment in the hospital.
Joseph, urged the public to remain calm, assuring them that the police and army would ensure the population’s safety.
He stated: “The president was assassinated at his home by foreigners who spoke English and Spanish. They shot and killed the president, and wounded his wife.”
However, France on Wednesday condemned the assassination of president Moise.
“All light must be shed on this crime, which takes place in a political and security climate that has severely worsened,” said Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian.
“I urge all those in Haitian politics to act with calm and restraint,” he added.