Sociopolitical corruption has dominated Haiti for more than 200 years, making it impossible for the country and its citizens to prosper. Rated as the poorest country in the Americas, Haiti is known for its frequent catastrophes. As a result of their most recent earthquake that killed around 300,000 individuals, the people of Haiti have lost more than family members and friends; they have also lost faith.
With the recent news of Wyclef Jean running for president of Haiti, Wyclef’s lack of political expertise and affiliation have become a predominant global concern. However, the Haitian’s awareness of Wyclef’s economic contributions and most significantly, his physical presence and substantial assistance during the country’s worst situation, it has lead them to believe that hope is on its way.
Surprisingly, an individual like Wyclef may be exactly what the country of Haiti desperately needs, a leader who is just the opposite of any “qualified” politician. Not only is he one of the most accomplished Haitians, but also, he is the most admired by his community. With a combination of his creative mind, a strong sense of logic, and ambition, Wyclef may be the ideal individual to persuade the people of Haiti to work in collaboration, become educated and then be equipped to follow their dreams and prosper.
In an interview with CNN, Wyclef said, “I am not even trying to be president. I am being drafted by the youth of Haiti.” According to him, since the most recent catastrophe of January 12, over 50% of the population of Haiti is youth. With the prior political instabilities in Haiti for the last 200 years Wyclef is finally coming in neutral, representing “the voice of the youth”.
There is a long journey ahead for Haiti as the landscape currently looks tired and withdrawn. Nevertheless, if an individual like Wyclef, criticized for not possessing the necessary tools to rule a country is able to rescue Haiti from this long-lasting state, then not only will the Haitians begin to dream again, but the political landscape will change forever.
By Samantha Stransky
