ECNETNews, New York, NY, August 20, 2024: In a significant move, the United States has sanctioned former Haitian President Michel “Sweet Micky” Martelly for his alleged involvement in the global drug trade. Martelly, aged 63, is accused of leveraging his political influence to facilitate drug trafficking and supporting various gangs operating within Haiti.
“The prevalence of narcotics trafficking and gang violence has severely undermined political stability and security in Haiti, creating a dire situation for its citizens,” the U.S. State Department remarked. “It is unacceptable for Haiti’s political and economic elites to exploit the nation’s future. Today’s sanctions reflect the United States’ firm commitment to holding accountable those whose actions contribute to gang violence and destabilization in Haiti, irrespective of their status.”
Martelly held the presidency from May 2011 to February 2016, stepping down amid significant political turmoil. His departure left Haiti without a president for a week until Jocelerme Privert took over as interim president. Following controversial electoral processes in 2015, Privert formed a commission to audit the election results, which ultimately deemed them compromised and called for new elections.
In 2012, allegations of corruption surfaced against Martelly, claiming he accepted $2.6 million in bribes linked to post-earthquake reconstruction contracts. Despite the allegations, he has consistently denied any wrongdoing. Under his administration, substantial financial contracts were awarded to companies connected to Félix Bautista, raising further questions about corruption.
Martelly’s post-presidency phase saw a return to music, with the release of a carnival méringue that humorously targeted a well-known Haitian journalist.
On November 17, 2022, Canada imposed joint sanctions on Martelly along with former Haitian Prime Ministers Laurent Lamothe and Jean Henry Ceant over serious human rights violations. These sanctions were motivated by accusations that Martelly supported violent gangs threatening the population, as stated in a press release from the Canadian government.
Martelly’s net worth has been estimated at a minimum of USD 5 million.
