Wyclef Jean has been honored in his native Haiti for his continued efforts to raise the profile of the troubled country. If you recall, ‘Clef had a failed bid for presidency of the country last year.Jean was not able to be president because he does not live in Haiti full time. He also drew criticism because many felt he was not equipped to run a country. However, because of his efforts, he was presented with a special honor by his opponent for the very leadership position he sought. How’s that for irony?
Jean has been a roving ambassador for his homeland since 2007 and has worked tirelessly on the nation’s rebuilding efforts after the earthquake that hit in 2010. Jean’s work has earned him the title of Grand Officer of the National Order of Honor and Merit. That’s a big deal, right? You bet.
BR<> Haiti’s new president, Michel Martelly, bestowed the distinction on Jean “as a sign of the utmost appreciation for his dedication to the promotion of Haiti across the world” in a special ceremony in Port-au-Prince earlier this week.
Presenting the award, Martelly said, “I have great joy in solemnly honoring a son of this earth who has assumed with force, conviction and humanity, his Haitian quality…You are one of the Haitians who make us proud.”
What do you think of Wyclef Jean receiving this honor from the person who won the post he vied for? Should he have been able to run for presidency?