Author: Opastaff
Haitian election officials have declined to form an independent commission to verify presidential election results, citing a lack of legal authority. This decision exacerbates doubts about the election’s integrity, as eight presidential candidates, including Jude Célestin who finished second, contest the results citing “massive fraud.” These allegations and the refusal to verify results are deepening political tensions and uncertainty about the scheduled December 27 runoff between Célestin and Jovenel Moise, the frontrunner backed by outgoing President Michel Martelly. Observers and opposition candidates have criticized the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) for not taking adequate measures to prevent fraud, particularly concerning the…
Fred Pinard (August 19th, 1956 to November 1st, 2015) The Haitian community came out in large numbers to celebrate the life of one of its most prominent figures, Fred Pinard. On November 1st, 2015, Fred passed away at home leaving behind countless family members and friends. His wake was held on Friday, November, 13th at Our Lady of Refuge Church in Brooklyn, NY where he was a parishioner and active member. His funeral was held the next day at the same location. The service was attended by his immediate family, close friends, his media colleagues, Assemblyman Mathieu Eugene, artist King Kino…
Rap icon and member of the popular 90s Haitian rap group King Posse, Black Alex has died. Black Alex died on Friday 13th, 2015, just two weeks after being admitted to l’Hôpital de la Communauté Haïtienne. He was 39 years old. Born on October 16, 1976, the charismatic rapper, Alex Jamecy Pierre was one of the best-known artists belonging to the rap Kreyol genre in Haiti. With his distinct and raspy voice, Black Alex along with his group mates controlled the rap Kreyol market in the 90s circa with hits like Lokal, Diana, Cool Non and many other. Back in…
In a Miami federal court, a jury initially deadlocked on the drug-smuggling charges against Haitian National Police officer Claude Thelemaque but returned a guilty verdict after further deliberation prompted by the judge. Thelemaque, who served as a police commander in Haiti, was accused of participating in a protection racket for Colombian cocaine traffickers between 2005 and 2012. Despite his defense presenting evidence that he was not in Haiti during a specific drug landing, the jury convicted him based on the testimonies of three traffickers. The case highlighted a broader issue of corruption within the Haitian National Police, where officers allegedly…
Straight out of Miami, Florida is the band Rylax (pronounced relax) who just released two original tracks titled; San Wont sung by Charlin Bateau and Won’t Stop sung Jeffandy Raymond. Band Info: Per their manager, Wes Dorcé; Rylax is a full band that consists of nine members and three giggers. Charlin Bateau and Jeffandy Raymond are the lead singers, Richardson Prudent 1st guitar and maestro, John Blanc keyboard player, Joseph Reginald Pierre 2nd guitar, Kervens Fils Aime Gongist, Jeremie Gelin drummer, Lovensky Pierre conga drums , Jean W. Dadaille bass player and the 3 giggers occupy the horn section.…
After the recent announcement of his departure from the band, Anbyans; Okyjems is back with a new band and a new single title “Lanmou An Danje.” The song “Lanmou An Danje” is a love track about a relationships that’s built on finances. This song takes Okyjems a little bit out of his element since he’s mostly known for his Carnival meringue that’s made hits in the past. Nou Vo is scheduled to make its official industry debut at a press conference in Haiti and the band is also scheduled to hit the states as well. No news on their album…
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) — Government-backed candidate Jovenel Moise and former state construction chief Jude Celestin appear to be advancing to a runoff election for Haiti’s presidency, according to preliminary results announced Thursday. The much-anticipated results from the 54-candidate first-round presidential contest on Oct. 25 were issued by Pierre Louis Opont, the leader of the Provisional Electoral Council. Since no candidate won a majority in that ballot, the two top finishers are set to meet in a Dec. 27 runoff. Opont did not take any questions from reporters after delivering the preliminary results at the council headquarters, which was under guard…
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Dano Eugene, one of the most talented artists in the HMI (Haitian Music Industry) has been called by Zenglen for a third time after previously leaving the group 2 times. Zenglen, soon to release a new album “Rezilta pi Rèd”, They are trying to make sure they have all the elements to categorize Zenglen as one of the great musical groups in the HMI. The pianist position was the last to fill. Dano Eugene and Zenglen were able to work out their differences. Two weeks ago the band let go of one of the three singers. Klemay, a young talent,…
The fourth edition of Haiti Fashion Week will be held from November 5 to 8, 2015 announced the Haitian Center for the Promotion of Enterprises (CHAPE). The theme for the week is Nourrir Haïti (Nurture Haiti). Organizers said at the meeting Wednesday that the week is being organized in the framework of the European Program of Support for Cultural Initiatives (PESIC) and this cultural event is a showcase fashion. They said it would be a privileged opportunity to highlight the many talents of Haitian artists and open new prospects for a promising economic sector. The 2015 edition will host France as guest…