Haiti and Guyana Engage Same Lobbyist to Strengthen U.S. Relations

Haiti and Guyana have both hired lobbying firm Continental Strategy, led by Carlos Trujillo. Haiti’s contract aims to support recovery and enhance its profile, while Guyana focuses on maintaining favorable U.S. trade relations due to territorial disputes. However, Haiti’s government has not clarified its specific lobbying objectives, raising concerns about accountability amidst ongoing political turmoil and conflict.

The Haitian government has engaged the lobbying services of Carlos Trujillo, a former Republican congressman and ambassador under President Trump. His firm, Continental Strategy, has secured a one-year contract worth $35,000 per month to advocate for Haiti’s interests in U.S. policy circles. The firm aims to support recovery efforts, boost U.S. trade and investment, and assist with financial sector improvements through various lobbying strategies, pending their implementation.

Alongside Haiti, Trujillo also signed a $50,000 monthly contract with the oil-rich nation of Guyana for a six-month period. The contract highlights the need for Guyana to maintain strong ties with the U.S., especially in light of ongoing territorial disputes with Venezuela. Guyana’s leadership has expressed the necessity of lobbying to ensure a favorable trade environment with the U.S.

Conversely, the Haitian government has not publicly articulated its objectives regarding Trujillo’s lobbying efforts. Insights from political figures such as Sauveur Pierre Étienne, a former presidential candidate, suggest that clarity is vital for effectively engaging lobbyists. Étienne advocates for a comprehensive approach to security and international relations as priorities for Haiti.

Nonetheless, concerns about the current transitional government’s credibility persist. Julio Volcy, a civil society member, stressed the importance of questioning the legitimacy and efficiency of any lobbying initiatives given the prevailing national crisis. Both Étienne and Volcy highlight the pressing need for transparency and the prioritization of Haitian citizens’ needs rather than political agendas.

Haiti remains in turmoil as ongoing gang violence and political instability hinder recovery efforts. The transitional governance structure has struggled amidst infighting and corruption, resulting in a surge of internal displacement. With elections highly uncertain and security deteriorating, critical decisions regarding the continuation of the transition government loom ahead.

In summary, both Haiti and Guyana have secured lobbying contracts with Carlos Trujillo’s firm to bolster their relations with the United States amidst their respective crises. While Guyana has articulated clear objectives, Haiti remains vague in its expectations, raising concerns about the efficacy of its engagement. As security and political stability falter in Haiti, stakeholders emphasize the need for transparency and concerted efforts to address urgent humanitarian needs.

Original Source: www.miamiherald.com