As we first suggested last week, and since then unofficially confirmed in the media, and pretty much by himself, Wyclef Jean announced on CNN’s Larry King Live that he is indeed running for president of Haiti. He told Larry King’s audience, “Yes, it’s my first time announcing it live… I am running to be the president of Haiti.”
Rumors that the Fugees musician might be seeking the presidency of his native land began swirling in late July, with Wyclef, 40, and his spokeperson responding indecisively, adding to the rumor mill. He has been one of the most vocal celebrities since the tragic earthquake hit the impoverished nation in January.
Wyclef told King he is “being drafted” by the youth in Haiti in an effort to bring proper education, help improve infrastructure, security and create jobs.
Despite the controversies surrounding his charity, Yele Haiti, which he has now resigned from, he feels he is qualified to run the nation, in part, because of his lack of involvement in the nation’s politics, and can serve as a neutral party, able to sit with other world leaders without being tainted by the political demons of Haiti’s past.
The election is scheduled for November 28.