Third Eye Views

In 1971 at the young age of 19, Jean-Claude ‘Baby Doc’ Duvalier became the new ruler of Haiti, following the death of his father, Francois ‘Papa Doc’ Duvalier.  Jean-Claude Duvalier initially resisted being the ruler and wanted the presidency to go to his older sister, Marie-Denise Duvalier, but Haiti’s dynastic arrangement prevented this from happening.  From 1971-1986, Duvalier’s corruption dramatically destabilized the country of Haiti.  In 1986, Duvalier sought exile in France and applied for political asylum, which was denied by French authorities.

Jean-Claude Duvalier at the Karibe Hotel in Port-au-Prince/Photo: Allison Shelly-Getty Images

Fast-forward 24 years later and Jean-Claude Duvalier returns to Haiti.  Why?  What is the real reason of his return and furthermore, who let him back in the country?  In a brief radio interview, Mr. Duvalier stated that his return is only about helping his country, not politics.  But for those who lived in Haiti under Duvalier’s rule, they are not only displeased, but unnerved about his return.  Evidently, his returned is also unnerving to both France and the United States.  According to the New York Times: ‘Neither France, which had granted Mr. Duvalier asylum, nor the United States, Haiti’s largest benefactor, said they had anything to do with his return. In fact, both governments said they had been unaware that Mr. Duvalier had left Paris until his flight was close to landing in Port-au-Prince.’ Duvalier was last seen being escorted out of his hotel by Haitian police, whether or not he is being arrested is unclear at this time.

What does all of this mean for Haiti?  This is a country that has suffered tremendously and it is going to take a lot to not only rebuild this country, but to also rebuild the trust of its citizens.  The history of the Haitian government has led to many rebellions and not enough rebuilding.  Maybe the return of Duvalier can lead to the necessary dialogue of this country being lead in the direction needed for the people of Haiti to prosper.