Aristide's removal a blow to democracy in region

Aristide's removal a blow to democracy in region - PPP
Guyana Chronicle
March 3, 2004

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THE People's Progressive Party (PPP) said the removal of President Jean Bertrand Aristide is "undoubtedly a blow to democracy in our region specifically, and the world at large," and expressed deep concerns about the turn of events there.

The party views Aristide kidnapping charge as a very serious one and strongly feels it should be clarified.

The party is contending that the countries with the capacity to intervene on the side of the democratically elected government "lost an opportunity to defend democracy and the rule of law by failing to do so."

It further noted that as a result, gangs were able to commit atrocities that led to the loss of several lives and destruction of property, continuing the violent history of that country.

"Now that Aristide is no longer in Haiti, we see that several countries are sending their military to restore order on the ground. We wonder why that could not have been done before President Aristide's departure," the party said.