Haiti confirms civil servants' 14th-month pay, with only the usual 10% tax deducted

Civil service agents will receive their 14th-month check as usual, Secretary of State for Communication Lucien Jura said at a press briefing at the Villa d'Accueil on Monday, October 19, 2026. He said the usual 10% tax is the only deduction planned. He added that the Ministry of Economy and Finance does not intend to take 15% from public administration salaries. He said such a deduction will apply to the bonuses and allowances of certain executives.

Ransoms imposed on residents of Carrefour

According to press reports, Christ-Roi Chéry, known as Kris la, now demands payments from people living in the commune of Carrefour, whether they own or rent. He leads the armed group Ti Bwa, which belongs to the Viv Ansanm coalition. The outlet says the coalition controls the commune. The sums depend on how the yard and house look from outside. According to the extortionists, the payment is due once a year.

Reported attack in Petite Rivière de l'Artibonite

Armed groups allegedly attacked the town center of Petite Rivière de l'Artibonite around 3:00 a.m. on Monday, October 19, 2026, according to local sources. No assessment of the attack is available yet.

A first for Haitian Vodou, inflation and voter registration

The following is also reported:

- **Vodou leadership:** On Sunday, October 18, 2026, in Limonade, the National Confederation of Haitian Vodou (KNVA) installed Florence Deltor Jean Joseph as Ati in Dereyal. She is the first woman to hold the post. She succeeds Prospère Louidor Ati, who had been serving in the interim.

- **Inflation:** Monthly inflation rose to 1.6% in August, after three months of slowing and against 0.9% in July 2026. The outlet attributes this mainly to higher fuel prices at the pump. Annual inflation kept slowing, from 17.5% in July 2026 to 17% in August.

- **Voter registration:** On Friday, October 16, the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) continued its awareness campaign in the South department. Its delegation visited the Camp-Perrin market, Cavaillon and Les Cayes. Members used brochures and a sound vehicle to explain the registration steps and the need for a valid registration to take part in the next general elections.