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26856: Hermantin(News)More than ever, Haiti needs U.S. (fwd)
From: leonie hermantin <lhermantin@hotmail.com>
Sun Sentinel
More than ever, Haiti needs U.S.
Ranley Desir
Adviser to Charles Henri Baker, Independent candidate for President of Haiti
Miami
December 7, 2005
On Jan. 8, millions of Haitians are to go to the polls to elect their first
president and national legislators since President Jean-Bertrand Aristide went
into exile in 2004. It is an election that must be free and fair, and one that
must take place as scheduled.
Already the national elections have been postponed four times, raising the
anxiety of millions of Haitians who are desperate for an opportunity to choose
a new direction for the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. Further
delay would inevitably lead to more violence, more hardship and even more
instability in a country that has had more than its share during its
independence.
With 35 candidates for president and elections for 120 legislative seats, the
election itself will be difficult and complex. More than ever, Haiti needs the
unwavering support of the United States and her other international partners to
closely monitor the elections and to stand with the country's new leadership.
The United States has had a tumultuous relationship with Haiti for more than
200 years. America must do what it can to support the restoration of the
democratic process in Haiti. The January elections must be held as planned.
Copyright © 2005, South Florida Sun-Sentinel