CPJ calls for release of Haitian journalist Wesly Renaud Jean after ransom demand

New York — The Committee to Protect Journalists is calling on Haitian authorities to secure the release of veteran journalist Wesly Renaud Jean, who was abducted by armed men in Delmas 31 on Sept. 6.

In a statement released on Sept. 12, CPJ said that the kidnappers have demanded a ransom and provided proof of life by telephone, citing Richard Widmaier, director of Radio-Télé Métropole and president of the National Association of Haitian Media.

“The kidnapping of veteran Haitian journalist Wesly Renaud Jean is deeply alarming,” said José Zamora, CPJ’s regional director for the Americas.

“Haitian authorities must act urgently to secure Jean’s safe release, investigate his abduction, and take concrete steps to protect journalists from escalating violence and insecurity,”   Zamora said.

Jean, 46, has co-hosted Radio-Télé Métropole’s morning news program for more than 10 years. A witness reported his abduction to colleagues, according to CPJ. The organization said it remains unclear whether he was targeted because of his work as a journalist.

Jean’s kidnapping was among a series of abductions reported in and around Port-au-Prince on Sept.6 and 7. Other reports have identified Delmas 31 as a site of repeated kidnapping incidents.

CPJ said the case comes as Haiti continues to face widespread gang violence and displacement. Citing the latest United Nations figures, the organization said 1.5 million people have been displaced across the country, while more than 3,050 people were killed and 1,400 injured between January and June. The UN also recorded at least 81 kidnappings during that period, with cases increasing in the second quarter.

CPJ said it provided financial support to 17 Haitian journalists in 2025 who faced work-related incidents, including assistance for psychosocial care, medical expenses, and relocation.

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