| Topic: |
Politics > Politics-USA |
| User: |
"Timothy-Allen Albertson" |
| Date: |
28 Feb 2004 12:04:36 PM |
| Object: |
Bush Accused Of Supporting Haitian Rebels |
Bush Accused Of Supporting Haitian Rebels
By Isabelle D. Lindenmayer
Published 2/27/2004
http://www.upi.com/view.cfm?StoryID=20040227-055619-8595r
WASHINGTON, Feb. 27 (UPI) -- Haitian activists Friday accused the Bush
administration of covertly supporting opposition forces to oust
President Aristide from power.
"The Bush administration is again engaged in regime change by armed
aggression," former U.S. attorney general Ramsey Clark said. "This
time, the armed aggression is against the administration of the
democratically elected president of Haiti."
Activists at a Friday press briefing outlined what they believe to be
a well-crafted plan by the Bush administration to overthrow Aristide.
Former Haitian military members, drug dealers and militants were armed
and trained in the Dominican Republic thanks to military support from
the United States. They have now crossed the border into Haiti,
activists said.
The rebel insurrection that erupted three weeks ago has left roughly
80 people dead, nearly half of whom were police officers.
U.S.-supported coups in Latin America and Africa during the Cold War
were referenced by many as models for what they perceive to be the
Bush administration's current strategy in Haiti.
"Policy is being engineered, just like when the U.S. wanted to
overthrow the Sandinista government," said Ben Dupuy,
secretary-general of the National Popular Party of Haiti. Covert CIA
operations in Guatemala, the Dominican Republic and the Congo were
also mentioned by activists, who repeatedly called for the United
States to cease any involvement in the Caribbean nation.
The crisis in Haiti has been looming since flawed legislative
elections were held in 2000 during which Aristide's party claimed
victory with an overwhelming majority of votes. In response,
international donors froze millions of dollars in aid, cutting off a
vital lifeline for one of the poorest countries in the Western
Hemisphere.
In addition, Aristide, who became Haiti's first freely elected leader
in 1990, has been accused of not doing enough to alleviate poverty,
condoning corruption, and using violence to quell political
opposition.
Activists blamed the American government for the failure of Aristide's
social programs.
"The U.S. brought this about by keeping an embargo on the country
since 1994. How could Aristide have succeeded?" former attorney
general Clark asked. "His goal has always been to move the people of
Haiti from a state of poverty to a state of dignity."
Participants pointed to differing ideologies on democracy as the
motivating force behind the Bush administration's alleged support of
opposition forces.
"The U.S. talks about democracy, but it's their democracy, not the
people's democracy," Dupuy said.
Using Venezuela as an example, Dupuy and Clark accused the
administration of not supporting governments that replace any group of
ruling elites. "Any government that has the support of the majority of
its people will have a problem with the United States," Dupuy said.
Regarding evidence linking the U.S. government with opposition forces,
Kim Ives, an activist and journalist working in Haiti, said that he
had proof of collaboration between Special Forces in Haiti and the
Dominican military. He said the Pentagon has sent military aid to the
Dominican Republic, including 20,000 M-16 rifles.
"It's not unlikely that some of those M-16s are some of the hardware
we see in the hands of the rebels today," Ives said.
"It is clear that the rebel forces crossed the Dominican border
heavily armed with equipment that even the former Haitian military did
not have, which could not have been done without the knowledge of the
Dominican army," another participant said. "We also know that the
Dominican government would not have allowed this to happen unless it
had clearance from the United States government."
As Aristide supporters presented their case for covert U.S. support of
insurgent groups, the Haitian president's fate was being discussed in
Paris at a meeting between Dominique de Villepin, the French foreign
minister, and a representative of the Haitian government.
France is pressuring Aristide to step down and cede to a transitional
government.
Strengthening the French government's position and further distancing
the White House from the Haitian leader, Secretary of State Colin
Powell said Thursday that Aristide should make a "careful examination"
of whether he should step down.
So far, the Bush administration remains committed to a political
solution, and would be supportive of an international security force
going into Haiti only after a political agreement has been reached,
White House Press Secretary Scott McClellan said Friday.
Participants at the National Press Club briefing had harsh words for
both the French and U.S. governments regarding the resignation of the
embattled leader. "We call on the Bush administration and the French
government to cease their efforts to overthrow a democratically
elected government and to allow democracy and freedom to continue,"
said Ray Laforest, director of Haitian Constituency U.S.A.
Bishop Thomas Gumbleton, who said he was a personal friend of
Aristide, spoke on behalf of the Haitian government adding, "I protest
the actions of the United States government -- especially Secretary
Powell."
Some Aristide loyalists do, however, see a role for the United States
in the days to come. "People must compel the organizations that are
relevant to immediately demand that the rebels stop and be held
accountable, and that they stay out of Port-au-Prince. The United
States government must say that out loud," Clark said.
Roger Ervin, a consultant to the Haitian government, pointed to three
actions the U.S. should take to address the crisis in the Caribbean
nation: join those in the international community who want to send a
security presence to restore order before a peace agreement, publicly
choose a side, and send humanitarian assistance.
"A wink and a nod from the U.S. is not going to get us anywhere,"
Ervin said.
Copyright © 2001-2004 United Press International
.
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| User: "Jerry Okamura" |
|
| Title: Re: Bush Accused Of Supporting Haitian Rebels |
28 Feb 2004 01:32:33 PM |
|
|
Good for him. Even the French want the guy out.
"Timothy-Allen Albertson" <Tim_Allen_Albertson@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:a5695439.0402281004.65f1693f@posting.google.com...
Bush Accused Of Supporting Haitian Rebels
By Isabelle D. Lindenmayer
Published 2/27/2004
http://www.upi.com/view.cfm?StoryID=20040227-055619-8595r
WASHINGTON, Feb. 27 (UPI) -- Haitian activists Friday accused the Bush
administration of covertly supporting opposition forces to oust
President Aristide from power.
"The Bush administration is again engaged in regime change by armed
aggression," former U.S. attorney general Ramsey Clark said. "This
time, the armed aggression is against the administration of the
democratically elected president of Haiti."
Activists at a Friday press briefing outlined what they believe to be
a well-crafted plan by the Bush administration to overthrow Aristide.
Former Haitian military members, drug dealers and militants were armed
and trained in the Dominican Republic thanks to military support from
the United States. They have now crossed the border into Haiti,
activists said.
The rebel insurrection that erupted three weeks ago has left roughly
80 people dead, nearly half of whom were police officers.
U.S.-supported coups in Latin America and Africa during the Cold War
were referenced by many as models for what they perceive to be the
Bush administration's current strategy in Haiti.
"Policy is being engineered, just like when the U.S. wanted to
overthrow the Sandinista government," said Ben Dupuy,
secretary-general of the National Popular Party of Haiti. Covert CIA
operations in Guatemala, the Dominican Republic and the Congo were
also mentioned by activists, who repeatedly called for the United
States to cease any involvement in the Caribbean nation.
The crisis in Haiti has been looming since flawed legislative
elections were held in 2000 during which Aristide's party claimed
victory with an overwhelming majority of votes. In response,
international donors froze millions of dollars in aid, cutting off a
vital lifeline for one of the poorest countries in the Western
Hemisphere.
In addition, Aristide, who became Haiti's first freely elected leader
in 1990, has been accused of not doing enough to alleviate poverty,
condoning corruption, and using violence to quell political
opposition.
Activists blamed the American government for the failure of Aristide's
social programs.
"The U.S. brought this about by keeping an embargo on the country
since 1994. How could Aristide have succeeded?" former attorney
general Clark asked. "His goal has always been to move the people of
Haiti from a state of poverty to a state of dignity."
Participants pointed to differing ideologies on democracy as the
motivating force behind the Bush administration's alleged support of
opposition forces.
"The U.S. talks about democracy, but it's their democracy, not the
people's democracy," Dupuy said.
Using Venezuela as an example, Dupuy and Clark accused the
administration of not supporting governments that replace any group of
ruling elites. "Any government that has the support of the majority of
its people will have a problem with the United States," Dupuy said.
Regarding evidence linking the U.S. government with opposition forces,
Kim Ives, an activist and journalist working in Haiti, said that he
had proof of collaboration between Special Forces in Haiti and the
Dominican military. He said the Pentagon has sent military aid to the
Dominican Republic, including 20,000 M-16 rifles.
"It's not unlikely that some of those M-16s are some of the hardware
we see in the hands of the rebels today," Ives said.
"It is clear that the rebel forces crossed the Dominican border
heavily armed with equipment that even the former Haitian military did
not have, which could not have been done without the knowledge of the
Dominican army," another participant said. "We also know that the
Dominican government would not have allowed this to happen unless it
had clearance from the United States government."
As Aristide supporters presented their case for covert U.S. support of
insurgent groups, the Haitian president's fate was being discussed in
Paris at a meeting between Dominique de Villepin, the French foreign
minister, and a representative of the Haitian government.
France is pressuring Aristide to step down and cede to a transitional
government.
Strengthening the French government's position and further distancing
the White House from the Haitian leader, Secretary of State Colin
Powell said Thursday that Aristide should make a "careful examination"
of whether he should step down.
So far, the Bush administration remains committed to a political
solution, and would be supportive of an international security force
going into Haiti only after a political agreement has been reached,
White House Press Secretary Scott McClellan said Friday.
Participants at the National Press Club briefing had harsh words for
both the French and U.S. governments regarding the resignation of the
embattled leader. "We call on the Bush administration and the French
government to cease their efforts to overthrow a democratically
elected government and to allow democracy and freedom to continue,"
said Ray Laforest, director of Haitian Constituency U.S.A.
Bishop Thomas Gumbleton, who said he was a personal friend of
Aristide, spoke on behalf of the Haitian government adding, "I protest
the actions of the United States government -- especially Secretary
Powell."
Some Aristide loyalists do, however, see a role for the United States
in the days to come. "People must compel the organizations that are
relevant to immediately demand that the rebels stop and be held
accountable, and that they stay out of Port-au-Prince. The United
States government must say that out loud," Clark said.
Roger Ervin, a consultant to the Haitian government, pointed to three
actions the U.S. should take to address the crisis in the Caribbean
nation: join those in the international community who want to send a
security presence to restore order before a peace agreement, publicly
choose a side, and send humanitarian assistance.
"A wink and a nod from the U.S. is not going to get us anywhere,"
Ervin said.
Copyright © 2001-2004 United Press International
.
|
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| User: "Peacenik" |
|
| Title: Re: Bush Accused Of Supporting Haitian Rebels |
29 Feb 2004 02:08:21 PM |
|
|
"Jerry Okamura" <okamuraj005@hawaii.rr.com> wrote in message
news:l160c.4594$4o3.1219@twister.socal.rr.com...
Good for him. Even the French want the guy out.
Funny - *America* restored Aristide, a *democratically* elected president,
to power 10 years ago, after a coup against him. Now, we're turning our back
on him.
So much for America being a champion of democracy in the world, allowing
another coup to take place against against him. But then, Bush doesn't care
much for democracy, does he?
--
Peacenik
.
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| User: "Col. RSJ" |
|
| Title: Re: Bush Accused Of Supporting Haitian Rebels |
28 Feb 2004 02:51:32 PM |
|
|
On 28 Feb 2004 10:04:36 -0800,
(Timothy-Allen Albertson) wrote:
Bush Accused Of Supporting Haitian Rebels
By Isabelle D. Lindenmayer
Published 2/27/2004
http://www.upi.com/view.cfm?StoryID=20040227-055619-8595r
WASHINGTON, Feb. 27 (UPI) -- Haitian activists Friday accused the Bush
administration of covertly supporting opposition forces to oust
President Aristide from power.
Let me be perfectly frank. Haiti is the picture next to the word
***** in the dict. They have had 200 years to get their *****
together and they are still worthless pieces of *****. Best thing for
Haiti is to carpet bombit then use it as a chemical wepons dumping
ground. ***** em. If the Democratic black caucus wants to really
help, tell them to grab a gun and head on down.
"The Bush administration is again engaged in regime change by armed
aggression," former U.S. attorney general Ramsey Clark said. "This
time, the armed aggression is against the administration of the
democratically elected president of Haiti."
Activists at a Friday press briefing outlined what they believe to be
a well-crafted plan by the Bush administration to overthrow Aristide.
Former Haitian military members, drug dealers and militants were armed
and trained in the Dominican Republic thanks to military support from
the United States. They have now crossed the border into Haiti,
activists said.
The rebel insurrection that erupted three weeks ago has left roughly
80 people dead, nearly half of whom were police officers.
U.S.-supported coups in Latin America and Africa during the Cold War
were referenced by many as models for what they perceive to be the
Bush administration's current strategy in Haiti.
"Policy is being engineered, just like when the U.S. wanted to
overthrow the Sandinista government," said Ben Dupuy,
secretary-general of the National Popular Party of Haiti. Covert CIA
operations in Guatemala, the Dominican Republic and the Congo were
also mentioned by activists, who repeatedly called for the United
States to cease any involvement in the Caribbean nation.
The crisis in Haiti has been looming since flawed legislative
elections were held in 2000 during which Aristide's party claimed
victory with an overwhelming majority of votes. In response,
international donors froze millions of dollars in aid, cutting off a
vital lifeline for one of the poorest countries in the Western
Hemisphere.
In addition, Aristide, who became Haiti's first freely elected leader
in 1990, has been accused of not doing enough to alleviate poverty,
condoning corruption, and using violence to quell political
opposition.
Activists blamed the American government for the failure of Aristide's
social programs.
"The U.S. brought this about by keeping an embargo on the country
since 1994. How could Aristide have succeeded?" former attorney
general Clark asked. "His goal has always been to move the people of
Haiti from a state of poverty to a state of dignity."
Participants pointed to differing ideologies on democracy as the
motivating force behind the Bush administration's alleged support of
opposition forces.
"The U.S. talks about democracy, but it's their democracy, not the
people's democracy," Dupuy said.
Using Venezuela as an example, Dupuy and Clark accused the
administration of not supporting governments that replace any group of
ruling elites. "Any government that has the support of the majority of
its people will have a problem with the United States," Dupuy said.
Regarding evidence linking the U.S. government with opposition forces,
Kim Ives, an activist and journalist working in Haiti, said that he
had proof of collaboration between Special Forces in Haiti and the
Dominican military. He said the Pentagon has sent military aid to the
Dominican Republic, including 20,000 M-16 rifles.
"It's not unlikely that some of those M-16s are some of the hardware
we see in the hands of the rebels today," Ives said.
"It is clear that the rebel forces crossed the Dominican border
heavily armed with equipment that even the former Haitian military did
not have, which could not have been done without the knowledge of the
Dominican army," another participant said. "We also know that the
Dominican government would not have allowed this to happen unless it
had clearance from the United States government."
As Aristide supporters presented their case for covert U.S. support of
insurgent groups, the Haitian president's fate was being discussed in
Paris at a meeting between Dominique de Villepin, the French foreign
minister, and a representative of the Haitian government.
France is pressuring Aristide to step down and cede to a transitional
government.
Strengthening the French government's position and further distancing
the White House from the Haitian leader, Secretary of State Colin
Powell said Thursday that Aristide should make a "careful examination"
of whether he should step down.
So far, the Bush administration remains committed to a political
solution, and would be supportive of an international security force
going into Haiti only after a political agreement has been reached,
White House Press Secretary Scott McClellan said Friday.
Participants at the National Press Club briefing had harsh words for
both the French and U.S. governments regarding the resignation of the
embattled leader. "We call on the Bush administration and the French
government to cease their efforts to overthrow a democratically
elected government and to allow democracy and freedom to continue,"
said Ray Laforest, director of Haitian Constituency U.S.A.
Bishop Thomas Gumbleton, who said he was a personal friend of
Aristide, spoke on behalf of the Haitian government adding, "I protest
the actions of the United States government -- especially Secretary
Powell."
Some Aristide loyalists do, however, see a role for the United States
in the days to come. "People must compel the organizations that are
relevant to immediately demand that the rebels stop and be held
accountable, and that they stay out of Port-au-Prince. The United
States government must say that out loud," Clark said.
Roger Ervin, a consultant to the Haitian government, pointed to three
actions the U.S. should take to address the crisis in the Caribbean
nation: join those in the international community who want to send a
security presence to restore order before a peace agreement, publicly
choose a side, and send humanitarian assistance.
"A wink and a nod from the U.S. is not going to get us anywhere,"
Ervin said.
Copyright © 2001-2004 United Press International
--
Money is truthful. If a man speaks of his honor,
make him pay cash.
(Robert A. Heinlein)
.
|
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| User: "Vader" |
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| Title: Re: Bush Accused Of Supporting Haitian Rebels |
29 Feb 2004 12:00:01 PM |
|
|
"Col. RSJ" <colrsj@alltel.net> wrote in message
news:jnv140hvi29sk3fqlgd62688q0v9orbakf@4ax.com...
Let me be perfectly frank. Haiti is the picture next to the word
***** in the dict. They have had 200 years to get their *****
together and they are still worthless pieces of *****. Best thing for
Haiti is to carpet bombit then use it as a chemical wepons dumping
ground. ***** em. If the Democratic black caucus wants to really
help, tell them to grab a gun and head on down.
A perfect example of a right-winger.
Thanks for making Democrats looks better.
.
|
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| User: "Col. RSJ" |
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| Title: Re: Bush Accused Of Supporting Haitian Rebels |
29 Feb 2004 01:52:35 PM |
|
|
On Sun, 29 Feb 2004 18:00:01 GMT, "Vader" <biteandblowme@nohome.net>
wrote:
"Col. RSJ" <colrsj@alltel.net> wrote in message
news:jnv140hvi29sk3fqlgd62688q0v9orbakf@4ax.com...
Let me be perfectly frank. Haiti is the picture next to the word
***** in the dict. They have had 200 years to get their *****
together and they are still worthless pieces of *****. Best thing for
Haiti is to carpet bombit then use it as a chemical wepons dumping
ground. ***** em. If the Democratic black caucus wants to really
help, tell them to grab a gun and head on down.
A perfect example of a right-winger.
Thanks, I'm proud to be right.
Thanks for making Democrats looks better.
Nothing can make Demonrats look good.
--
Money is truthful. If a man speaks of his honor,
make him pay cash.
(Robert A. Heinlein)
.
|
|
|
| User: "zepp" |
|
| Title: Re: Bush Accused Of Supporting Haitian Rebels |
29 Feb 2004 02:43:17 PM |
|
|
On Sun, 29 Feb 2004 13:52:35 -0600, Col. RSJ <colrsj@alltel.net>
wrote:
On Sun, 29 Feb 2004 18:00:01 GMT, "Vader" <biteandblowme@nohome.net>
wrote:
"Col. RSJ" <colrsj@alltel.net> wrote in message
news:jnv140hvi29sk3fqlgd62688q0v9orbakf@4ax.com...
Let me be perfectly frank. Haiti is the picture next to the word
***** in the dict. They have had 200 years to get their *****
together and they are still worthless pieces of *****. Best thing for
Haiti is to carpet bombit then use it as a chemical wepons dumping
ground. ***** em. If the Democratic black caucus wants to really
help, tell them to grab a gun and head on down.
A perfect example of a right-winger.
Thanks, I'm proud to be right.
Thanks for making Democrats looks better.
Nothing can make Demonrats look good.
On behalf of Democrats everywhere, thank you. It's an honor to have
sleazy little Usenet racists revile us.
-
Kerry served in Vietnam and got a silver star.
Putsch served in the National Guard and got a silver filling.
Not dead, in jail, or a slave? Thank a liberal!
Pay your taxes so the rich don't have to.
For the finest in liberal/leftist commentary,
http://www.zeppscommentaries.com
For news feed (free, 10-20 articles a day)
http://groups.yahoo.com/subscribe/zepps_news
For essays (donations accepted, 2 articles/week)
http://groups.yahoo.com/subscribe/zepps_essays
.
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| User: "Peacenik" |
|
| Title: Re: Bush Accused Of Supporting Haitian Rebels |
29 Feb 2004 04:29:06 PM |
|
|
"zepp" <zeppnospam@finestplanet.com> wrote in message
news:3mj4409od29miut3leho6eqk2rmqdjm69d@4ax.com...
On Sun, 29 Feb 2004 13:52:35 -0600, Col. RSJ <colrsj@alltel.net>
wrote:
On Sun, 29 Feb 2004 18:00:01 GMT, "Vader" <biteandblowme@nohome.net>
wrote:
"Col. RSJ" <colrsj@alltel.net> wrote in message
news:jnv140hvi29sk3fqlgd62688q0v9orbakf@4ax.com...
Let me be perfectly frank. Haiti is the picture next to the word
***** in the dict. They have had 200 years to get their *****
together and they are still worthless pieces of *****. Best thing for
Haiti is to carpet bombit then use it as a chemical wepons dumping
ground. ***** em. If the Democratic black caucus wants to really
help, tell them to grab a gun and head on down.
A perfect example of a right-winger.
Thanks, I'm proud to be right.
Thanks for making Democrats looks better.
Nothing can make Demonrats look good.
On behalf of Democrats everywhere, thank you. It's an honor to have
sleazy little Usenet racists revile us.
Confucius on leadership: "It is not enough to be loved by all. It is better
to be loved by the good and hated by the bad."
--
Peacenik
.
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| User: "MikeSoja" |
|
| Title: Re: Bush Accused Of Supporting Haitian Rebels |
29 Feb 2004 05:01:41 PM |
|
|
On Sun, 29 Feb 2004 22:29:06 GMT, "Peacenik"
<criskity999@com999cast.removeallnines.net> posted:
Confucius on leadership: "It is not enough to be loved by all. It is better
to be loved by the good and hated by the bad."
Thanks, Chrissy. I'll remember that next time you moue that Bush
hasn't adequately courted world approval.
Mike Soja
.
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| User: "Peacenik" |
|
| Title: Re: Bush Accused Of Supporting Haitian Rebels |
29 Feb 2004 02:09:20 PM |
|
|
"Col. RSJ" <colrsj@alltel.net> wrote in message
news:jnv140hvi29sk3fqlgd62688q0v9orbakf@4ax.com...
On 28 Feb 2004 10:04:36 -0800,
(Timothy-Allen Albertson) wrote:
Bush Accused Of Supporting Haitian Rebels
By Isabelle D. Lindenmayer
Published 2/27/2004
http://www.upi.com/view.cfm?StoryID=20040227-055619-8595r
WASHINGTON, Feb. 27 (UPI) -- Haitian activists Friday accused the Bush
administration of covertly supporting opposition forces to oust
President Aristide from power.
Let me be perfectly frank. Haiti is the picture next to the word
*****
Racist.
--
Peacenik
.
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|
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| User: "" |
|
| Title: Re: Bush Accused Of Supporting Haitian Rebels |
28 Feb 2004 04:11:37 PM |
|
|
Best newsgroup for debates on the topic of regime change in Haiti
_________________________________________________________
[1]
soc.culture.haiti
[2]
alt.politics.bush
[3]
soc.culture.cuba
[4]
soc.culture.african.american
_________________________________________________________
.
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| User: "Vader" |
|
| Title: Re: Bush Accused Of Supporting Haitian Rebels |
28 Feb 2004 12:16:40 PM |
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|
Personally, I don't doubt Shrub is letting the Haiti situation get this bad,
simply to deflect the news media from Iraq and his failed presidency.
"Timothy-Allen Albertson" <Tim_Allen_Albertson@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:a5695439.0402281004.65f1693f@posting.google.com...
Bush Accused Of Supporting Haitian Rebels
By Isabelle D. Lindenmayer
Published 2/27/2004
http://www.upi.com/view.cfm?StoryID=20040227-055619-8595r
WASHINGTON, Feb. 27 (UPI) -- Haitian activists Friday accused the Bush
administration of covertly supporting opposition forces to oust
President Aristide from power.
"The Bush administration is again engaged in regime change by armed
aggression," former U.S. attorney general Ramsey Clark said. "This
time, the armed aggression is against the administration of the
democratically elected president of Haiti."
Activists at a Friday press briefing outlined what they believe to be
a well-crafted plan by the Bush administration to overthrow Aristide.
Former Haitian military members, drug dealers and militants were armed
and trained in the Dominican Republic thanks to military support from
the United States. They have now crossed the border into Haiti,
activists said.
The rebel insurrection that erupted three weeks ago has left roughly
80 people dead, nearly half of whom were police officers.
U.S.-supported coups in Latin America and Africa during the Cold War
were referenced by many as models for what they perceive to be the
Bush administration's current strategy in Haiti.
"Policy is being engineered, just like when the U.S. wanted to
overthrow the Sandinista government," said Ben Dupuy,
secretary-general of the National Popular Party of Haiti. Covert CIA
operations in Guatemala, the Dominican Republic and the Congo were
also mentioned by activists, who repeatedly called for the United
States to cease any involvement in the Caribbean nation.
The crisis in Haiti has been looming since flawed legislative
elections were held in 2000 during which Aristide's party claimed
victory with an overwhelming majority of votes. In response,
international donors froze millions of dollars in aid, cutting off a
vital lifeline for one of the poorest countries in the Western
Hemisphere.
In addition, Aristide, who became Haiti's first freely elected leader
in 1990, has been accused of not doing enough to alleviate poverty,
condoning corruption, and using violence to quell political
opposition.
Activists blamed the American government for the failure of Aristide's
social programs.
"The U.S. brought this about by keeping an embargo on the country
since 1994. How could Aristide have succeeded?" former attorney
general Clark asked. "His goal has always been to move the people of
Haiti from a state of poverty to a state of dignity."
Participants pointed to differing ideologies on democracy as the
motivating force behind the Bush administration's alleged support of
opposition forces.
"The U.S. talks about democracy, but it's their democracy, not the
people's democracy," Dupuy said.
Using Venezuela as an example, Dupuy and Clark accused the
administration of not supporting governments that replace any group of
ruling elites. "Any government that has the support of the majority of
its people will have a problem with the United States," Dupuy said.
Regarding evidence linking the U.S. government with opposition forces,
Kim Ives, an activist and journalist working in Haiti, said that he
had proof of collaboration between Special Forces in Haiti and the
Dominican military. He said the Pentagon has sent military aid to the
Dominican Republic, including 20,000 M-16 rifles.
"It's not unlikely that some of those M-16s are some of the hardware
we see in the hands of the rebels today," Ives said.
"It is clear that the rebel forces crossed the Dominican border
heavily armed with equipment that even the former Haitian military did
not have, which could not have been done without the knowledge of the
Dominican army," another participant said. "We also know that the
Dominican government would not have allowed this to happen unless it
had clearance from the United States government."
As Aristide supporters presented their case for covert U.S. support of
insurgent groups, the Haitian president's fate was being discussed in
Paris at a meeting between Dominique de Villepin, the French foreign
minister, and a representative of the Haitian government.
France is pressuring Aristide to step down and cede to a transitional
government.
Strengthening the French government's position and further distancing
the White House from the Haitian leader, Secretary of State Colin
Powell said Thursday that Aristide should make a "careful examination"
of whether he should step down.
So far, the Bush administration remains committed to a political
solution, and would be supportive of an international security force
going into Haiti only after a political agreement has been reached,
White House Press Secretary Scott McClellan said Friday.
Participants at the National Press Club briefing had harsh words for
both the French and U.S. governments regarding the resignation of the
embattled leader. "We call on the Bush administration and the French
government to cease their efforts to overthrow a democratically
elected government and to allow democracy and freedom to continue,"
said Ray Laforest, director of Haitian Constituency U.S.A.
Bishop Thomas Gumbleton, who said he was a personal friend of
Aristide, spoke on behalf of the Haitian government adding, "I protest
the actions of the United States government -- especially Secretary
Powell."
Some Aristide loyalists do, however, see a role for the United States
in the days to come. "People must compel the organizations that are
relevant to immediately demand that the rebels stop and be held
accountable, and that they stay out of Port-au-Prince. The United
States government must say that out loud," Clark said.
Roger Ervin, a consultant to the Haitian government, pointed to three
actions the U.S. should take to address the crisis in the Caribbean
nation: join those in the international community who want to send a
security presence to restore order before a peace agreement, publicly
choose a side, and send humanitarian assistance.
"A wink and a nod from the U.S. is not going to get us anywhere,"
Ervin said.
Copyright © 2001-2004 United Press International
.
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| User: "Jerry Okamura" |
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| Title: Re: Bush Accused Of Supporting Haitian Rebels |
28 Feb 2004 01:36:32 PM |
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So? What do you propose he do about Haiti? Regime change perhaps. Invade
the country perhaps? Are they a real threat to the security of the U.S.?
They certainly don't have any WMDs. Heck I am not even sure they have a
military of any importance. We will see what the UN does about this. It is
after all a very small island, that should make the job easy for them to
take care of. Oh yes, they can resort to sanctions.
"Vader" <biteandblowme@nohome.net> wrote in message
news:bW40c.415275$I06.4616626@attbi_s01...
Personally, I don't doubt Shrub is letting the Haiti situation get this
bad,
simply to deflect the news media from Iraq and his failed presidency.
"Timothy-Allen Albertson" <Tim_Allen_Albertson@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:a5695439.0402281004.65f1693f@posting.google.com...
Bush Accused Of Supporting Haitian Rebels
By Isabelle D. Lindenmayer
Published 2/27/2004
http://www.upi.com/view.cfm?StoryID=20040227-055619-8595r
WASHINGTON, Feb. 27 (UPI) -- Haitian activists Friday accused the Bush
administration of covertly supporting opposition forces to oust
President Aristide from power.
"The Bush administration is again engaged in regime change by armed
aggression," former U.S. attorney general Ramsey Clark said. "This
time, the armed aggression is against the administration of the
democratically elected president of Haiti."
Activists at a Friday press briefing outlined what they believe to be
a well-crafted plan by the Bush administration to overthrow Aristide.
Former Haitian military members, drug dealers and militants were armed
and trained in the Dominican Republic thanks to military support from
the United States. They have now crossed the border into Haiti,
activists said.
The rebel insurrection that erupted three weeks ago has left roughly
80 people dead, nearly half of whom were police officers.
U.S.-supported coups in Latin America and Africa during the Cold War
were referenced by many as models for what they perceive to be the
Bush administration's current strategy in Haiti.
"Policy is being engineered, just like when the U.S. wanted to
overthrow the Sandinista government," said Ben Dupuy,
secretary-general of the National Popular Party of Haiti. Covert CIA
operations in Guatemala, the Dominican Republic and the Congo were
also mentioned by activists, who repeatedly called for the United
States to cease any involvement in the Caribbean nation.
The crisis in Haiti has been looming since flawed legislative
elections were held in 2000 during which Aristide's party claimed
victory with an overwhelming majority of votes. In response,
international donors froze millions of dollars in aid, cutting off a
vital lifeline for one of the poorest countries in the Western
Hemisphere.
In addition, Aristide, who became Haiti's first freely elected leader
in 1990, has been accused of not doing enough to alleviate poverty,
condoning corruption, and using violence to quell political
opposition.
Activists blamed the American government for the failure of Aristide's
social programs.
"The U.S. brought this about by keeping an embargo on the country
since 1994. How could Aristide have succeeded?" former attorney
general Clark asked. "His goal has always been to move the people of
Haiti from a state of poverty to a state of dignity."
Participants pointed to differing ideologies on democracy as the
motivating force behind the Bush administration's alleged support of
opposition forces.
"The U.S. talks about democracy, but it's their democracy, not the
people's democracy," Dupuy said.
Using Venezuela as an example, Dupuy and Clark accused the
administration of not supporting governments that replace any group of
ruling elites. "Any government that has the support of the majority of
its people will have a problem with the United States," Dupuy said.
Regarding evidence linking the U.S. government with opposition forces,
Kim Ives, an activist and journalist working in Haiti, said that he
had proof of collaboration between Special Forces in Haiti and the
Dominican military. He said the Pentagon has sent military aid to the
Dominican Republic, including 20,000 M-16 rifles.
"It's not unlikely that some of those M-16s are some of the hardware
we see in the hands of the rebels today," Ives said.
"It is clear that the rebel forces crossed the Dominican border
heavily armed with equipment that even the former Haitian military did
not have, which could not have been done without the knowledge of the
Dominican army," another participant said. "We also know that the
Dominican government would not have allowed this to happen unless it
had clearance from the United States government."
As Aristide supporters presented their case for covert U.S. support of
insurgent groups, the Haitian president's fate was being discussed in
Paris at a meeting between Dominique de Villepin, the French foreign
minister, and a representative of the Haitian government.
France is pressuring Aristide to step down and cede to a transitional
government.
Strengthening the French government's position and further distancing
the White House from the Haitian leader, Secretary of State Colin
Powell said Thursday that Aristide should make a "careful examination"
of whether he should step down.
So far, the Bush administration remains committed to a political
solution, and would be supportive of an international security force
going into Haiti only after a political agreement has been reached,
White House Press Secretary Scott McClellan said Friday.
Participants at the National Press Club briefing had harsh words for
both the French and U.S. governments regarding the resignation of the
embattled leader. "We call on the Bush administration and the French
government to cease their efforts to overthrow a democratically
elected government and to allow democracy and freedom to continue,"
said Ray Laforest, director of Haitian Constituency U.S.A.
Bishop Thomas Gumbleton, who said he was a personal friend of
Aristide, spoke on behalf of the Haitian government adding, "I protest
the actions of the United States government -- especially Secretary
Powell."
Some Aristide loyalists do, however, see a role for the United States
in the days to come. "People must compel the organizations that are
relevant to immediately demand that the rebels stop and be held
accountable, and that they stay out of Port-au-Prince. The United
States government must say that out loud," Clark said.
Roger Ervin, a consultant to the Haitian government, pointed to three
actions the U.S. should take to address the crisis in the Caribbean
nation: join those in the international community who want to send a
security presence to restore order before a peace agreement, publicly
choose a side, and send humanitarian assistance.
"A wink and a nod from the U.S. is not going to get us anywhere,"
Ervin said.
Copyright © 2001-2004 United Press International
.
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