Haiti Commemorates 220th Anniversary of Jean-Jacques Dessalines
On October 17, 2026, Haiti marked the 220th anniversary of the assassination of Jean-Jacques Dessalines with a ceremonial wreath-laying at the Museum of the Haitian National Pantheon (MUPANAH). Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, along with members of his government, honored Dessalines, recognized as the founder of Haiti and its first emperor.
The ceremony began with a minute of silence, followed by the playing of the Last Post, paying tribute to Dessalines, referred to as the Father of the Nation. This solemn observance highlighted the enduring legacy of a leader dedicated to the freedom and emancipation of the Haitian people.
Following the tribute, attendees participated in a guided tour of the Museum’s historical and artistic exhibits. At the conclusion of the tour, Prime Minister Fils-Aimé recorded a message in the guestbook, stating, “On this day of remembrance, I bow before the memory of Emperor Jean-Jacques Dessalines, Founding Father of our Nation. Let us honor his sacrifice; it is to keep alive his ideal of liberty, sovereignty, and dignity. Let’s draw from his courage the strength to unite and give every Haitian a nation at peace, proud and strong.”
At the National Palace, the Prime Minister continued the commemoration, urging a national awakening to restore government authority, combat impunity, and ensure security across Haiti. He emphasized that honoring Dessalines goes beyond ceremonial speeches each October 17, stating, “It is to commit ourselves to keeping his vision alive and carrying the demands of the people on our shoulders.”
This year’s observance was a call to action, reflecting on the current challenges facing the nation while seeking to revitalize the principles championed by Dessalines.
