Perfect for Politics
Is Wyclef Jean's bid for the Haitian presidency heroic or shady?
It seems native Haitian Wyclef Jean was serious about running for president of the troubled island nation.
The former Fugee became a temporary hero when his homeland was devastated by earthquakes in January, but quickly became controversial when it was revealed that his charity, Yele Haiti, had major accounting problems (think money going to pay rent on Jean's recording studio, and allegedly paying the salary of his mistress). In fact, the charity has more than once been dissolved by the Florida Division of Corporations for failing to provide adequate disclosure reports.
Wyclef pushed for his organization to take command of relief efforts, although documents revealed that Jean and another charity board member had paid themselves at least $410,000 from its funds. Repeatedly denying any wrong doing in often emotional press conferences, Wyclef pledged greater accountability.
With his already impressive background in shady dealings and philandering (Jean is married, but has at least preemptively stated that his marriage is open), this hip-hop star seems perfectly poised for a career in politics. And he's not wasting any time — no city council or stint in congress for this guy.
He is set to announce his bid for Haiti's highest office Thursday.
So what do you think? Is Jean looking out for Haiti or himself?
