Organization of American States
www.oas.org

                                                                            (E-246/01)

December 18, 2001  

STATEMENT BY SECRETARY GENERAL  
CONDEMNING CONTINUED UNREST AND VIOLENCE IN HAITI 

        

The Organization of American States remains gravely concerned over the political and social unrest in Haiti, and once again vigorously condemns Monday's attack on the National Palace. The Organization views the resort to violence as a severe threat to democracy, political stability and economic development, and rejects vehemently any effort to use force to remove the government of any member state. 

We take note of Presidents Aristide’s condemnation of violence from any source. Haiti and its people need calm and peace at this very difficult time in their history. 

The OAS has received reports that the homes of several opposition leaders and the offices of the main opposition coalition and three of its constituent parties were set on fire during the widespread violence and disturbances which beset Port au Prince and other cities in Haiti on December 17^th in the wake of an attack on the Presidential Palace.   

Secretary General Gaviria condemns unequivocally all acts of violence which threaten lives and property.  

The government of Haiti has a clear obligation to protect all its citizens and to exercise restraint in the restoration of law and order.     

  

César Gaviria
Secretary General
Washington, D.C.