Me Kurzban, the lawyer of former President Jean-Bertrand Aristide, has confirmed yesterday Tuesday to have received the diplomatic passport of his client during a brief stopover in the Haitian capital. "Yes, I have it" he indicated in a brief telephone interview before leaving for Miami, without specifying when his client would return to Haiti.

It must be remembered that Me Kurzban had recently asked to the Haitian authorities to implement a security plan for his client, in accordance with a law which requires the Government to ensure the security of former Presidents.

It is highly likely now that Kurzban will go to South Africa to deliver the passport to Jean-Bertrand Aristide.

Update 12h00pm : According to comments given to AFP by Me Kurzban, the lawyer of Jean-Bertrand Aristide, concerning the return of his client in the country, the lawyer said "I am sure that is what he will do" adding "He will try to return as soon as possible. This will happen very soon" expressing his "hope" that Mr. Aristide take a flight for Port-au-Prince in the coming days.

HL/ HaitiLibre