Haiti presidential hopeful Wyclef Jean has promised to legally fight the Haiti Electoral Commission’s decision to disqualify him from running.
Jean was informed last Friday (August 20) that he was ineligible to run. A reason was not publicly disclosed, but many experts believe he was eliminated for not meeting the country’s five-year residency requirement. The former Fugees member countered to the Associated Press that he will be in court today (August 23) to reveal documentation that proves “everything is correct.” Jean also bluntly accused the Haitian government of corruption, citing his disqualification “has everything to do with Haitian politics.”
Despite the huge setback and reported death threats, Wyclef vowed to show the world he has the resolve and leadership abilities to lead a nation.
“I am heartened by the world’s focus on Haiti and its needs, as well as the great spirit of the Haitian people — my people, and I cannot in good conscience give up my quest to lead Haiti to the greatness I know in my heart we are capable of reaching,” Wyclef said in a statement yesterday (August 22). “I cannot surrender now, simply because an obstacle has been set before me; now is the time I must stand up and show Haiti — and the world — that my vision of a nation renewed and redeveloped is a vision for which I am willing to fight.”
Beats, Boxing and Mayhem 