Maurice Étienne, a guide at the Citadelle Henry since the 1970s, expressed his regret over the closure of the historic monument following the tragedy on April 11, 2026. Speaking on Magik 9 this Friday, May 8, Mr. Étienne argued that the tragedy should not lead to the site’s closure but rather to a significant improvement in its management.
“The drama does not represent an occasion to close the site, but rather to manage it better,” he stated, describing the authorities’ decision as unfortunate. According to him, the measure penalizes tourists who have planned their visits for months and severely impacts the economy of Milot, where small businesses depend on tourism. He called on the relevant ministries to prioritize better organization, such as limiting visitor numbers and providing formal training for guides.
Beyond its historical significance, Étienne emphasized that the Citadel is a symbol of national pride and freedom, honoring the vision of King Henri Christophe. He noted that while the Easter period traditionally draws large crowds, this was the first time in history that lives were lost during a gathering at the site. Following the April 11 incident, which resulted in more than twenty deaths, authorities have kept the Citadel temporarily closed.
