Aristide return will not hurt Haiti, says CARICOM Chairman
Published:Tuesday | February 15, 2011 | 9:51 AM
The Chairman of CARICOM has expressed doubt that the return of former Haitian President Jean Bertrand Aristide would result in an escalation of unrest and violence in the country.
The US and France have raised concern that Aristide's presence could further destabilise Haiti as the country prepares for the March 20 presidential run-off.
However, CARICOM chairman Tillman Thomas said it is up to the Haitian people to decide their future.
According to him, if Haiti sees it fit to issue a passport to the former president, paving the way for his return, the country is free to do so.
The Haitian government last week granted a diplomatic passport to the former leader who has been in exile in South Africa since 2004.
It's not yet known when Aristide will return to Haiti.