After the earthquake, many developed nations promised to help rebuild Haiti. However, one year later, little has been done in the way of rebuilding. Only about 38% of the money pledged has been received and spent -- most of it for food and medical care. Those left homeless by the quake are still homeless and may be living in tents for years to come.
Adding to the Haitian problems is a recent election which is still being disputed, and a cholera outbreak that has claimed thousands of victims. In the midst of all these problems, a figure from the nation's past has returned to the island -- Jean-Claude "Baby Doc" Duvalier. Duvalier and his infamous father, Francois "Papa Doc" Duvalier (both pictured above), ruled Haiti with an iron hand for nearly 30 years. Papa Doc seized power in 1957, and his son took over in 1971 (after his father's death). They ruled through terror -- mainly from their secret police, the Tonton Macoute.
These two dictators ruled with the approval and support of the United States (two of many right-wing tyrants the U.S. has supported over the years -- under the supposition that a right-wing dictator was preferred over an elected left-wing president who might nationalize the property of U.S. corporations). Baby Doc Duvalier was finally ousted in 1986 and fled the country after the U.S. government finally withdrew its support.
No one knows why the 59 year-old former dictator has returned at this critical time in Haiti's history, but it is unlikely that he was just homesick. He still has some support on the island, and may have visions of regaining his former power. With the massive problems being currently faced by Haiti, it would be a prime time for an old dictator to seize power.
Duvalier says he returned "because I know the people are suffering. I wanted to show them my solidarity, to tell them that I am here, I am well disposed and determined to participate in the rebirth of Haiti." Frankly, that sounds ominous.
Duvalier's return is not good news for the people of Haiti, and the situation will warrant close observation.
Hundreds of people “disappeared” or were executed. Members of Haiti’s armed forces and the militia National Security Volunteers – also known as the “tonton macoutes” — played a primary role in repressing pro-democracy and human rights activists. The “tonton macoutes” were disbanded in 1986 after Jean-Claude Duvalier went into exile.
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