A lot of smoke and mirrors – connected to simple, good old corruption in the form of brown envelopes full of American $100 bills.
He is the darling of Sophia Martelly as he pumps a fortune into her basket. He is the darling of sitting, and political hopefuls.
Canada’s Ambassador Paula Caldwell St-Onge, recently met with a dozen, or so, presidential candidates. Without exception, these criminals said they would retain Nesmy Manigat, as Minister of Education, if elected. This didn’t require a big investment on his part. He has simply given each presidential candidate $1,000 with the promise of more – when they win.
The Canadian, a newcomer to the Haitian game, was really impressed. The government will pour more money into Manigat’s ministry in the futile hope that Canada will be helping Haitian children.
Wrong!!
A good example of Manigat’s approach can be found in the case of Deputy Fritz Chery. He received 20,000,000 gourdes, plus a lot of material – including a container of cement.
He built a small structure without anything. Didn’t even have toilets. Doesn’t have a director or teachers!!!
He used the cash, and materials, to build a hotel.
Of course, Deputy Chery is a vocal supporter of Manigat.
They should both be castrated!
Manigat has something like 30 -40 journalists on the Ministry payroll at retainer of 30,000 gourdes each. If one of them, for instance a writer for Le Nouvelliste, happens to do something special – Manigat will spring with a possible $20,000 American. What does he care/ It isn’t his money. Today’s paper has such a story on the front page.
Manigat really sees himself as President and is working towards this.
A proper forensic/financial/corruption investigation would save us from this threat.
10 Years in jail could be a sobering experience.
But then, this is Haiti and murderers, kidnappers can pay judges. Shouldn’t be much of a trick for Manigat when one realizes how much he has stolen.
He can share a little with a friendly judge, or a First Lady.
