Entertainment sells most in the richest of nations, and the poorest of nations. One can afford a lot of it, and the other is in dire need of it. Perhaps why Haiti has chosen to have a popular entertainer as its next President.
Haiti happens to be not only the poorest country in the Americas but also one tossed about by political turmoil and earthquakes. The catastrophe in 2010 had the island lamenting 300,000 souls, which was almost one-third of its population. Michel Martelly, the President-elect of Haiti perhaps had this all in mind, when he addressed his first press conference since he was confirmed winner. “Things will change. For those who suffer in flesh and soul, may their spirits be renewed,” declared Martelly. And thousands of Haitians poured out into the streets of Port-au-Prince, in a celebration that almost wiped away the months-old memories of the devastated Haitian capital.
Widely known as “Sweet Mickey”, Martelly seemed to have all the makings of a maverick entertainer. He dropped out of medical school to heal his followers with his music, though much later. In between, he took flight from military training when a General’s daughter ended up carrying his love in more than just her heart. Bold and enterprising Mickey, one must say.
In the recent past, Michel Martelly, along with his able wife, did win over Haiti’s heart as an activist and Ambassador. Music can heal our hurt, and has a way of making us forget our painful past. Hope the sweet singer of Haiti can do the same for his people.
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