GARY BODEAU, FORMER PRESIDENT OF LOWER CHAMBER OF THE HAITIAN PARLIAMENT, STRONGLY REBUKES ACCUSATIONS AGAINST HIM MADE BY THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA
I, Gary Bodeau, unequivocally condemn the Canadian Government’s recent press release, which labeled me as an individual involved in the financing and proliferation of gangs, mobs, and other violent groups in Haiti. The Canadian Government has accused me of being a participant in human rights violations against my own people—the Haitian people.
Throughout my career, I have never participated in any of the activities of which I have been accused. I have always supported the efforts of nonviolent groups in Haiti who have been working to build a better future where human rights are respected and where Haitians can achieve prosperity.
The Government of Canada is making claims for which there is absolutely no evidence.
What the Canadian Government is doing is targeting me and subjecting me to persecution. Their reckless actions were designed to strip me of my credibility and prevent my continued ascension within Haiti’s leadership.
At no point in my life have I ever participated in gang related activities, human rights violations ,arms trafficking in my country or anywhere else in the world. I have never been a part of any activity that could lead to the destabilization of my country and the safety of my fellow Haitians.
The reality is that I have devoted my life to public service. I have devoted my life to the people of Haiti. I have devoted my life to ensuring that the people of my community, of my city, and of my country can live in a society of which they can be proud and where they can feel safe. In my last four years as a member of the Haitian Parliament, I proposed and supported bills that guaranteed the rule of law, the eradication of corruption, and the promotion of human rights and the dignity of the Haitian people. Following my term in office, I established a foundation dedicated to providing safe outlets and activities for the youth.
In conclusion, I ask my fellow Haitians to continue believing in me and standing alongside me as we fight for democracy in Haiti. As a proud son of Haiti, I will take all actions lawful and necessary to clear my name and regain the public’s confidence. I am certain that the truth will prevail and it shall light our path to freedom.