The town of Mirebalais, in central Haiti, was the scene of a murderous attack by armed gangs from the “Viv Ansanm” coalition on the night of March 30-31, 2025. The attack claimed the lives of two nuns from the Sainte-Thérèse community: Sister Evanette Onezaire and Sister Jeanne Voltaire, respected figures for their humanitarian and educational commitment.
The circumstances of the tragedy
The two nuns had been working for several years at the École nationale de Mirebalais. During the violence, they had taken refuge in the house of the school janitor with a young girl to escape the clashes. Unfortunately, armed gang members burst into the house and shot them dead in cold blood. The young girl was also wounded in the attack.
A shock for the community
These nuns were known for their dedication to children, the elderly and vulnerable populations. Their murder sent shockwaves not only through Mirebalais, but across the country. Many locals regarded them as spiritual mothers and pillars of the local community.
A context of growing insecurity
This tragedy is part of a wider context of widespread violence in Haiti. Increasingly powerful armed gangs are stepping up attacks on public institutions and civilians. In Mirebalais, the attack also targeted a police station, a prison (from which over 500 inmates have escaped), as well as businesses and homes. The town remains in chaos, despite efforts by the security forces to regain control.
Reactions and calls for action
The murder of the two nuns aroused strong emotions in the Haitian Catholic community and beyond. The Archbishop of Port-au-Prince, Max Leroy Mésidor, described the act as an “immense loss” for the community. Demonstrations broke out in several parts of the country to denounce the growing insecurity and call for urgent intervention by local and international authorities.
Conclusion
The tragic deaths of Sœur Evanette Onezaire and Sœur Jeanne Voltaire illustrate the scale of the security crisis in Haiti. As the people of Mirebalais mourn their loss, this tragedy highlights the urgent need for a coordinated response to restore peace and protect civilians in a country beset by endemic violence.