The daughter of Jovenel Moïse, the assassinated president of Haiti, recounted a harrowing experience during her testimony at the trial of Christian Emmanuel Sanon, a 67-year-old Haitian American pastor accused of involvement in the assassination plot. Jomarlie Moïse described how she and her younger brother, Jovenel Moïse Jr., hid in a bathroom with their dog as gunmen invaded their home on July 6, 2021, ultimately killing their father and severely injuring their mother.
Jomarile Moïse’s testimony of the night her father was assassinated in 2021
Jomarlie Moïse, now 29, detailed her experience during the violent attack, saying she initially mistook the sound of gunfire for fireworks. After realizing it was gunfire, she left her bedroom to find her brother, and together they took refuge with their dog. Their mother, former First Lady Martine Moïse, directed them to the bathroom for safety.
In the bathroom, the siblings held the dog, Delilah, quiet while they listened for further danger. Once the shooting subsided, they cautiously checked on their parents. Jomarlie described seeing her mother bleeding and receiving the devastating news from a police officer that her father was dead. Their mother was subsequently transported to a hospital in Haiti, where she was later airlifted to South Florida for further treatment.
Martine Moïse returned to the stand for day 2 of cross-examination by the defense attorneys
On the same day, Martine Moïse continued her testimony, completing cross-examination by the defense counsel. She revealed that during the attack, her husband reached out to trusted associates, including the Haitian National Police Chief, but no assistance arrived. She described the atmosphere in Haiti at that time as chaotic, noting that her husband faced numerous enemies.
Martine Moïse emphasized that many were likely involved in the conspiracy against her husband, stating it was a coordinated effort rather than the act of an individual. During questioning by the defense, she addressed reports of cash found in their home, asserting she was unaware of it but acknowledged that her husband occasionally used cash for information.
A surgeon who treated Martine Moïse also testified Wednesday
Testimony from Dr. Steven Kalandiak, who treated Martine Moïse, revealed the severity of her injuries, particularly to her elbow. Kalandiak provided details of her three treatment options, indicating she chose a procedure that ultimately limited her arm’s movement. He also recounted a second surgery she underwent in May 2022 to improve her arm function.
Emotional testimony from the Haitian doctor who performed Moïse’s autopsy
The proceedings included emotional testimonies from Jean Raymond Demorcy, the director of forensic medicine who conducted Jovenel Moïse’s autopsy. Graphic images and X-rays depicting the president’s injuries prompted a visceral reaction from those in attendance. An FBI agent also testified about the investigation into the assassination, detailing his efforts shortly after the event.
Christian Emmanuel Sanon faces multiple charges, including conspiracy to kidnap or murder, related to the assassination of the Haitian president. If found guilty, he could face a life sentence in federal prison. The ongoing trial in Miami is expected to last several weeks.
Why It Matters
The trial surrounding the assassination of Jovenel Moïse has significant implications for Haiti, a nation grappling with political instability and violence. The testimonies of family members and witnesses may shed light on the broader circumstances surrounding the assassination and the impact of ongoing criminal investigations on the nation’s future.
