US accuses Haitian government of contributing to violence

Tuesday, February 10, 2004

WASHINGTON, USA (AFP): The Haitian government of President Jean-Bertrand Aristide has contributed to the violence unsettling the Caribbean nation, State Department spokesman Richard Boucher said Monday, condemning recent clashes and calling for negotiation.

"It's a very complicated situation," Boucher said.

"The government has responded with a combination of police and pro-Aristide gangs. The pro-Aristide gangs reportedly erected flaming tire barricades in several cities," Boucher said.

"There are different groups, there are different private groups or, you know, nongovernmental ... bands of violent actors, thugs on both sides who have been involved in violence, as well as the government reaction that we think has often sometimes contributed to the violence.

Boucher said, "the United States strongly condemns the latest wave of violence in Haiti. We deeply deplore the loss of life that occurred during attacks in Gonaives, St. Marc and other cities. We call on the government of Haiti to respect the rights, especially human rights, of all citizens and residents of Haiti."

"And we call on all Haitians to respect the law," he said. "The problems of Haiti will not be solved by violence and retribution. Only through dialogue, negotiation and compromise can Haiti find a solution to its problems."

Rebel fighters in Haiti's north battled authorities Monday as they pressed their violent drive to force President Jean-Bertrand Aristide to step down.

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