Haiti: January 7 Attack on Political Demonstration

The United States condemns the actions of the Haitian Government in response to the political demonstration that occurred January 7 in Port-au-Prince. Although it is clear some elements of the police worked diligently to protect the demonstrators, it is also clear that other police officers collaborated with heavily-armed, hired gangs to attack the demonstrators. Throughout the day, these same government-sponsored gangs rampaged through the streets of the capital, stealing cars, attacking radio stations, vandalizing businesses, and harassing people.

These actions contradict the government’s own declarations that it seeks compromise and a peaceful resolution of Haiti’s political crisis. A government that wishes to be considered democratic cannot continue to use street gangs as an instrument of terror and intimidation. The Government of Haiti must end immediately its efforts to suppress peaceful dissent, must punish those who commit violent acts of repression, and must undertake the fundamental reforms necessary to restore the rule of law in Haiti, in accordance with OAS Resolution 822.

The United States Government believes the crisis in Haiti must be resolved through peaceful means and dialogue.

2004/13