The former President of Haiti and artist Michel Martelly, in reaction to debates in some media and social networks about statements made during public performances where he said he had invested funds "stolen" of PetroCaribe program in the El Rancho Hotel https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-25449-haiti-news-zapping.html , wanted to clarify the story and the truth in a statement dated September 6.

Recalling that "[...] it is no secret to anyone [...] that during my services, I often liked to use humor and even self-mockery, to demystify certain news and entertain my audience.

[...] I note the turmoil and the comments aroused by a statement that, the artist that I am, made several months ago concerning certain investments (Best Western, Marriott, NH El Rancho among others) [...] It is well-known that most of these companies belong to well-known multinational and local and foreign investors and that the Haitian State or government, even less the presidential family of the 2011-2016 quinquennium, holds no interest neither shares in these companies.

I confirm that it was humor and that these statements must remain in their context. I regret the consequences that these remarks could or could have caused.

Having enjoyed the trust of the population from 2011 to 2016, I remain sensitive to the echo of his voice. That is why I would like to state emphatically and clearly that I am in favor of accountability for the use of PetroCaribe funds and all other government funds that may have had dubious uses, in order to establish the truth and prevent all false and/or unjustified accusations.

I reiterate my confidence in State institutions to conduct fair and impartial investigations in order to preserve the principle of the presumption of innocence and to establish the guilt of any institutions or individuals who deserve it if is the case. [...]"

HL/ HaitiLibre