Haitian President Moise attempts "coup"

Haitian government officials said they were rejecting an attempt to overthrow President Jovenel Moise, who is facing increasing anger from opposition leaders and the Haitian public, if his term ends.

Justice Minister Rockefeller Vincent said an "attempted coup" took place on Sunday, while authorities said 23 people had been arrested, including a high court judge and senior police officer.

'I thank my security chief at the palace. The purpose of these people was to make an effort in my life, 'says Moise, who is expected to address the country on Sunday afternoon. "The plan has ended."

Earlier in the day, Moise wiped out criticism from the opposition and human rights groups who say his presidency expires on Sunday.

Moise, who has been ruling without any control over his power for the past year, has demanded that his term end on February 7, 2022 - an interpretation of the country's constitution rejected by the opposition.

"The next 12 months will be focused on reforming the energy sector, conducting the referendum and organizing elections," he tweeted Sunday morning.

Protesters calling for Moise to retire clashed with police in the capital, Port-au-Prince, on Sunday afternoon. Police fired tear gas to disperse the protesters.

Meanwhile, top law experts have questioned the arrest of the judge in the high court. Wilner Morin, president of the National Association of Haitian Magistrates, told Ayibopost that it was an "illegal arrest".

Manuel Rapalo of media from Mexico City, said things were likely to remain tense in Haiti as opposition leaders demanded the release of the detainees, including the judge of the Supreme Court.

"And there is a call for more protests against the president, and the opposition has promised to continue the government of Jovenel Moise," Rapalo said.