Michel Martelly, former president of Haiti, returned to his country on Wednesday, marking one of his rare visits. His return has sparked curiosity as Martelly has not disclosed the reason for his trip. Local media suggests he may testify in the investigation of the assassination of former President Jovenel Moïse, which occurred in July 2021. Although involved in the country’s politics, Martelly remains without accusations or charges in this case. His last visit was approximately three years ago.
A small group of supporters welcomed Martelly, who was in office from 2011 to 2016 and is a resident of the United States. Avoiding media queries, he moved through the welcoming crowd, surrounded by supporters playing music, holding his pictures, and exclaiming, “The father is back!”
Michel Martelly appointed Moïse as his successor; both belong to the Tèt Kale Party, commonly known as PHTK. This party has been influential in Haiti’s political landscape but is absent from the upcoming general elections, which have been overdue for over ten years.
Martelly, also known by his stage name “Sweet Micky,” faces longstanding corruption accusations. In November 2022, Canada imposed sanctions on him, and later in August 2024, the U.S. did the same, linking him to drug trafficking and gang sponsorship. The U.S. Department of State criticized the negligence of Haitian political and economic elites, suggesting they compromise Haiti’s future.
In December 2025, the European Union enforced a travel ban and asset freeze against certain Haitian politicians, including Martelly, accusing him of utilizing gangs for political and economic gain. In addition, Haiti’s Anti-Corruption Unit accused him of providing misleading asset declarations. Martelly has not made any public statements regarding these allegations.
His visit occurs during challenging times for Haiti, which is dealing with severe poverty and growing gang violence.
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