Haiti: Recent Violence

The United States deplores the violent suppression of political demonstrations that have occurred in Haiti recently. These demonstrations, led mainly by students, were legitimate and peaceful expressions of political views. The Government of Haiti acted in complicity with its hired armed gangs to suppress these demonstrations with violence, resulting in some injuries and deaths.

We urge the Government of Haiti to end immediately its efforts to stifle legitimate dissent, and to work with the Organization of American States, the United States, and other members of the international community toward a peaceful, democratic resolution of its political troubles.

2003/1264