Thousands rally for Ariside return [View All]

More than 5,000 supporters of ousted President Jean-Bertrand Aristide marched through Haiti's capital, calling for his return and accusing the U.S. government of forcing his departure.
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Protesters, many wearing T-shirts and caps with photos of Aristide, chanted "George Bush kidnapped Aristide," and "Mobilize for Aristide to return!"
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More than two dozen U.S. Marines patrolled the march route Friday, and there were no reports of violence. Haitian riot police also were on hand.

Protesters said new presidential elections would not be legitimate if Aristide didn't come back and serve out his term. Aristide has said he wants to return one day but has said the conditions must be right.

"We can never go to elections without Aristide being returned," said Johnny Daris, 21, a mechanic among the marchers.
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http://www.etaiwannews.com/World/2004/06/20/1087702490.htm


And from the American press ...


Haiti wants Aristide back -- to stand trial

As deposed President Jean-Bertrand Aristide was departing the Caribbean for South African exile last month, he vowed to return to his homeland.

Haitian justice authorities also want him to return -- to face trial for alleged drug trafficking, money laundering, misuse of public money and expropriation.

"We are investigating these misdeeds, and if we have evidence of his wrongdoing, we will seek to extradite him," interim Justice Minister Bernard Gousse said. "The investigation is continuing, and I don't want to jeopardize it, but I can say we are making progress."

Aristide's Miami-based lawyer, Ira Kursban, said his client steadfastly rejects such allegations as "totally false and politically motivated." Noting that only the United States recognizes the interim Haitian government, Kursban described the inquiry as "an investigation designed to smear President Aristide that is directed by the U.S. Embassy in Haiti."
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http://www.palmbeachpost.com/news/content/auto/epaper/editions/today/news_045d50d88197328900bb.html