Wyclef Jean to run for president of Haiti

TIME article


WUT. I don't understand why people think being politically aware and active gives someone the qualifications necessary to actually RUN a country. Especially one in a dire crisis.

that's awesome, and probably a good thing for haiti

My initial reaction was: "he can't possibly make things worse."

I stand by that assessment.

Quote:

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Originally posted by Orual

My initial reaction was: "he can't possibly make things worse."

I stand by that assessment.

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I have to agree. When was the last time they had a functioning government anyway that was good for the people?

Hey, you had Ronald Reagan! At least Wyclef can sing.

Yeah, I don't see Wyclef being any worse than any of the other rulers they've had. Who knows if he's competent, but at least he'll probably be less corrupt.

The problem is that I can see him trying to do the role on humanitarian grounds, helping the poor and needy, but running into the problems the country has to do with corruption and poverty.

It would be interesting to see how this compares to Manny Pacquiao (boxing) or even Arnold Schwarzenegger who have both gone from high profile roles in other areas into politics.

I'm in the "it's not like he could be much worse than what they've historically had" camp. At least he genuinely seems to care about helping the country.

I just have a few questions for the candidate, with all due respect:

1.If he becomes the President, will he pay attention really listen?

2.If someone talks intelligent, will he be willing to change his position?

Wyclef Jean And The Tonton Macoutes --- band name!

I think his chances of being elected are probably pretty good, considering how many young voters there are in Haiti and the fact that he'd be seen as someone fresh and new instead of involved in the corrupt political scene there. As others have said, he probably couldn't do any worse.

But I worry he might not be prepared for just how corrupt politics are in Haiti. I can imagine a lot of his efforts being stymied and sabotaged. Assassination efforts from those who like keeping things just the way they are seem likely.

Someone should check his birth certificate, just in case there's any problems down the line.

Did anyone else see this? Reactions?
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/wyclef..._b_672752.html

A man of true decency. He'll get eaten alive.

Interestingly enough, he has said if he does win the government will be run using English and Creole instead of French and Creole. That has not been a popular decision within Haiti.