19473: Jacmel...Sunday at 12:45 pm... (fwd)

[Bob Corbett <corbetre@webster.edu>]

Please post anonymously (not sure why but it feels better)

Jacmel...at 12:45 pm

Aristide has left, and there is no law or order in the country:

I still feel safe, though I am held up in my apartment. I would not take to the streets alone, even in Jacmel.  Pretty much, as long as folks stay in, there won't be problems.  Juilia, I am in touch with your folks, they are fine in cyvadier.

Listening to the radio and watching from my seaside window, I am hearing news and seeing fringes of demonstrations. We have heard that International troops are on their way to Haiti to restore order. I hope this is true and encourage you, if you are inclined, to contact appropriate legislators, representatives, etc to ensure that troops are on their way.

While I have never been one for military intervention, I DO BELIEVE that the International community MUST send troops into Haiti to restore the peace, law and order.

I also believe the International community has a huge responsibility in remedying the way Aristide has left the country in chaos. For major powers to pressure him for his resignation, forcing him to run in the middle of the night, without planning how law and order would be supported (never mind maintained) was INCREDIBLY IRRESPONSIBLE…..especially given all the Haiti experts. ALL OF US here in Haiti were clear what would happen if he left like this. And now it is coming to pass, even in Jacmel.

I just heard on local radio 500 marine are on there way to Haiti today….I hope it is true.

PLEASE….contact representatives, legislators, senators and DEMAND that a force be sent to KEEP THE PEACE…..the blood bath that will ensue if they are not here is unnecessary and Avoidable.  I also agree that and would ask you also request of the US gov't (if  you feel it appropriate to request) that the Haitian debt to the US should be forgiven, at least this would be a start to rebuild



So, here’s what's happening (from my vantage point) in Jacmel.

Right now we are totally without rule of law, authority or anyone in legitamate power.

Today the ‘opposition’ has broken down and looted the commissaria.(police station)

Aristide supporters barricaded the roads against ‘the rebels’ last nite, a group of armed opposition went after them this morning…..gun shots were heard, but not sure what has happened.

There is NOT wild shooting in the streets, the violence is targeted.

Daytime Electricity has been restored in Jacmel, though they just said they are taking it away at 1:00 to restore again at 7 tonight

The radio is asking everyone to stay inside and let those that want to make trouble do what they want.

There have been some cars of more prominent citizens (and politicians) stolen

There have reportedly been a few targeted killings of Lavalas supporters (chimeras)

That's the news....personally:    I find  a sad statement indeed, that Haitians here are saying they are used to this kind of ‘change of power’.  It feels that  any movement toward democracy  (that is so desired and so disbelieved anyway) has been sorely impeded.

With all my heart, I hope the international community will help truly rebuild and install democracy here….the people want it, but it takes a serious commitment of education, guidance and financial support.  Unfortunately, I have my doubts.

.SO that's it for now....Gotta go…..thanks again for your support and concern.

May Peace Prevail,









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