a1666: BBC: Opposition leaders say that they are not under any illusions as regards the battle they must lead to open up democratic space. (fwd)

[Bob Corbett <corbetre@webster.edu>]

From: Robert Benodin <r.benodin@worldnet.att.net>

Haitian opposition plays down president's statement of optimism
BBC Monitoring Service - United Kingdom; Apr 13, 2002


The Democratic Convergence believes the head of state gave his speech of
optimism and appeasement because of the presence of the OAS mission in the
country. Opposition leaders say that they are not under any illusions as
regards the battle they must lead to open up democratic space. The
Convergence has reiterated its willingness to cooperate with the OAS
mission. Convergence spokesman Micha Gaillard made the following speech:
[Gaillard - recording] Aristide is making more statements in order to play
down the importance of the OAS mission in Haiti. This mission is reminiscent
of the mission that came to Haiti after the military coup in order to open
up democratic space. Besides, it is called the mission to strengthen
democracy.
So, in order to protect his partisans, Aristide is making numerous
statements. But he knows very well that the mission is here to open up
democratic space, as was the case during the military coup and after the
return of democracy in 1994.
We believe it is important for us to have a clear mind, to act as
responsible people and to continue to give support not only to the inquiry
mission but also to all the other missions which will work on human rights,
justice, governance and security. If Aristide thinks that he should play his
role to calm his flock, then so much the better for democracy. But, as for
us, we have no delusions. We have a battle to wage, a battle to open up
democratic space. Then we shall play our part in full.
BBC Monitoring/ ¸ BBC