| Press Statement Richard Boucher Washington, DC March 20, 2001 Haiti: Appeal for CalmThe United States is deeply concerned by escalating political violence in Haiti. Opposition demonstrations began peacefully on March 14. However, anti-opposition protests by "popular organizations" have turned increasingly violent in recent days with incidents of tire burning, rock throwing, roadblocks, and shootings that have resulted in several reported casualties. The United States appeals for calm and urges all political leaders and party members to refrain from issuing inflammatory remarks and provoking more violence. We call on the Government of Haiti and its security forces to respect and protect the democratic and constitutional rights of all citizens to assemble peacefully and express their political opinions. Haitian National Police personnel conducted themselves professionally on March 14; however, the United States has been disappointed by their failure to respond adequately to disturbances over the past several days. The United States views as unacceptable intimidation and harassment of political party leaders and members. Haiti’s political impasse risks polarizing the country’s political and civil societies. In order to improve the well-being of the people of Haiti, political leaders of all persuasions need to work together to engage in a process of reconciliation. Now more than ever there is an urgent and pressing need for dialogue. All political parties must approach the electoral crisis in a conciliatory manner that places the needs of the Haitian people ahead of partisan interests. |
 | |||
|
