Haiti PM resigns as violence escalates

Other forces trying to fill vacuum, with gangs tightening grip on country

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Haiti Prime Minister Ariel Henry has resigned, potentially sparking a power struggle that could have broad implications for the Western Hemisphere's poorest nation and the United States.

"The government I lead cannot remain insensitive to this situation. As I have always said, no sacrifice is too great for our homeland Haiti," Mr Henry said in a resignation address that he posted online.

Videos distributed on Haitian social media appeared to show celebrations in the street, with people dancing to music in a party atmosphere and fireworks launched into the night sky.

Mr Henry's resignation will be effective upon the creation of a transitional council that will appoint an interim prime minister and prepare for elections, according to Guyana President Irfaan Ali.

He is the current chair of Caricom, a Caribbean regional body that has been meeting to find a resolution to the crisis in Haiti.

"Haitians deserve a country where children can go to school and their parents know they will be safe," Mr Ali said in a news conference on late March 11. "We implore all parties, all stakeholders, all Haitians to be patient."