Haiti: TPC approves "war time budget"

The transitional presidential council has approved on Monday an exceptional "war time budget" to address what it called a security and social emergency as armed gangs have taken control of nearly all of the capital and surrounding areas.

The 36 billion gourdes ($275.86 million) budget will be used to boost security forces, secure the border and support social programs, the council said in a statement.

Nearly 40% of the money will go toward Haiti’s police and military “to fight the armed groups that threaten national stability,” while nearly 20% will go to fortify the border the country shares with the Dominican Republic.

Another 16% will go to social programs, including those focused on education, health and humanitarian assistance. 

The council said the special budget reflects the state’s commitment to act decisively and target the growing insecurity.