Baby Doc is back - what is going on in Haiti?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the unexpected return of former Haitian dictator Jean-Claude "Baby Doc" Duvalier to Haiti, exploring the implications of his arrival amidst the country's ongoing struggles following a devastating earthquake. Participants express a range of views on the potential political and social consequences of his return, as well as reflections on Haiti's current state and historical context.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory
  • Historical
  • Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note the surprise and mixed reactions to Duvalier's return, with reports of 2,000 supporters greeting him, raising questions about the nature of this welcome.
  • Others speculate on the nostalgia some Haitians may feel for Duvalier's regime, suggesting that memories of past stability could influence current political dynamics.
  • Concerns are raised about the potential for renewed chaos in Haiti, with references to the country's ongoing struggles with poverty, homelessness, and political instability.
  • Participants discuss the implications of Duvalier's past actions and the legacy of his rule, with some citing historical accounts of violence and repression during his time in power.
  • There are observations about the current humanitarian crisis, including reports of aid being stalled and the slow pace of recovery efforts post-earthquake.
  • Some express fears that Haiti could descend into a state similar to Somalia, highlighting the desperation of the population and the potential for criminal activity to flourish.
  • Participants question the motivations behind Duvalier's return, with some suggesting it could distract from addressing pressing issues facing the country.
  • There are references to the visible contrast between Haiti and the Dominican Republic, raising questions about environmental and economic factors affecting both nations.
  • Some participants express strong emotional reactions to Duvalier's presence, suggesting punitive measures against him, reflecting deep-seated frustrations with Haiti's political situation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion reveals multiple competing views regarding the implications of Duvalier's return, with no consensus on whether it will lead to positive or negative outcomes for Haiti. Participants express a range of opinions on the historical context and current state of the country, indicating a lack of agreement on the best path forward.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference various reports and historical accounts, but there are limitations in the discussion regarding the verification of claims about Duvalier's intentions and the current political climate in Haiti. The complexity of the situation is underscored by the interplay of nostalgia, fear, and ongoing humanitarian challenges.

  • #31
WhoWee said:
The adults in the world need to say "NO" - and take control of the situation.

http://edition.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/americas/01/22/haiti.duvalier.barr/?hpt=T2

Here's one adult taking a stand.

CNN said:
Port-Au-Prince, Haiti (CNN) -- A former U.S. congressman was among a group of American attorneys accompanying former Haitian dictator Jean-Claude "Baby Doc" Duvalier as he spoke in the country's capital Friday.

Former Republican Congressman Bob Barr said he is not serving as Duvalier's attorney, but is in Port-au-Prince to consult, assist and be Duvalier's voice to the international community.

Barr represented Georgia's 7th District in the U. S. House of Representatives from 1995 to 2003, and was the Libertarian Party's presidential nominee in 2008. He currently practices law and runs a consulting firm based in Atlanta.

"We have been asked by the former president and his family to assist him in his efforts," Barr told reporters in Port-au-Prince.

Wow...
 

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