Aristide stays close to Haiti

2004-03-16 17:44

Washington - Former Haitian president Jean Bertrand Aristide refused to say what his plans are following his arrival in Jamaica which has sparked a controversy with Haiti, The Washington Post reported on Tuesday.

But he said he wants to remain close to the Haitian people.

"Let us be wise enough to continue to listen to the voice of the Haitian people," Aristide was quoted as saying on the plane that took him from Bangui, capital of the Central African Republic, to Kingston.

"They will always know I cannot forget their suffering."

"I do believe many Haitians who are poor or suffering, or in hiding, think that if I am closer physically, it's better for them instead of being far away," the Post quoted Aristide as saying.

"I will not lie to them" added Aristide, who fled Haiti on February 29 and maintains he was pushed out in a coup and effectively kidnapped by US troops.

Washington says he willingly discussed his departure after rebels took over half the country, and that he signed a formal resignation letter.

Aristide's arrival in Jamaica on Monday angered Haitian authorities, who froze ties with their Caribbean neighbour and warned of potential for further violence in Port-au-Prince.

- AFP