Haitian gang leader asks USA and United Nations to break ties with govt and help liberate country

A gang leader in Haiti has called on the United Nations and the United States to break ties with the country's government and help "liberate Haiti".

Jimmy Cherizier, known as "Barbecue", the G9 family and allies leader, a group of nine criminal gangs that dominate much of Port-au-Prince, began the appeal during a press conference on Wednesday in La Saline, one of the impoverished areas of the capital.

"We take this moment to ask the United Nations friendly nations of Haiti, specifically the United States of America, to come to this side of history as faithful allies who desire the well-being of the Haitian people by the divorcing off the status quo, "said the Cherizier.

The G9 dominates the larger section of the capital and is accused of assassinations and massacres, including the murder of babies. The gang leader has ultimately denied responsibility for the crimes.

The group of gangs is also accused of burning down communities to the ground, pushing thousands to flee and ask for extortion payments from businesses. Those who disrespect see their businesses looted or their owners killed.

The insecurity in Haiti, which has already undergone economic and political crises, has spiralled since President Jovenel Moise was shot dead in July.

Cherizier, who placed himself as the voice of the people, even though his gangs are accused of contributing to the country's difficulties, repeatedly called for the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, acknowledging many of the riots.

He also accused Henry of taking part in the murder of Moise after mobile phones between Henry and Joseph Felix Badio, one of the main suspects in the murder, became known. As per investigative reports, both had spoken to each other on the night President Moise was murdered.

Henry said he did not remember the calling Badio while claiming he spoke to many people that night. Badio's location remains unknown.

Gangs under the control of the Cherizier have been accused of causing vital fuel shortages by blocking access to the country's principal port in the capital. The deficits caused outbursts of violence at petrol stations and a general strike by workers' unions.

He had previously said he would guarantee the safe passage of fuel if Henry resigned.

His latest comments come as the United States struggles to negotiate the release of 17 members of a missionary group from the United States, who were abducted by the rival gang of G9 families. The 400 Mowazo gangs have demanded a $17 million ransom to free the missionary group that also include an eight-month old baby.