Wyclef Barred From Running for Haiti's Presidency

All the speculation about Wyclef Jean's presidential bid in Haiti was for naught, because he's ineligible to run. So said an electoral commission yesterday. The sticking point: five consecutive years of residency in Haiti, which he does not have. Suggested Reading The Root 100 – 2020 Black History Month – 2022 Hip-Hop 50 Year –…

All the speculation about Wyclef Jean's presidential bid in Haiti was for naught, because he's ineligible to run. So said an electoral commission yesterday. The sticking point: five consecutive years of residency in Haiti, which he does not have.

Video will return here when scrolled back into view
Stefon Diggs and Cardi B Viral Boat Video Prompts Response from Patriots Coach
Stefon Diggs and Cardi B Viral Boat Video Prompts Response from Patriots Coach

"It is with a heavy heart that I tell you today that the board of elections in Haiti has disqualified me from my run for the presidency of the country," Wyclef Jean said in a statement late Friday night. "Though I disagree with the ruling, I respectfully accept the committeeโ€™s final decision, and I urge my supporters to do the same."

SOURCE: WSJ.com

A link to the full message from Wyclef was sent out from his Twitter page early this morning.

Reportedly, United Nations peacekeepers were mobilizing in the Haitian capital of Port-au-Prince last night and earlyย today to headย off anyย unrest related to the announcement.

Sending out a prayer for peace and brighter days for the Haitian people.

Sheryl Huggins Salomon is senior editor-at-large of The Rootย and a Brooklyn, N.Y.-based editorial consultant.ย Follow her on Twitter.

Straight From The Root

Sign up for our free daily newsletter.