Thousands join anti-govt protest in Haiti

 
PORT-AU-PRINCE - Tens of thousands of protesters gathered yesterday in the largest demonstration so far calling for Haitian President Jean Bertrand Aristide's resignation, as a ruling  party supporter was shot dead in the coastal city of Miragoane.

Supporters of Aristide's Lavalas party engaged in stone throwing  in the capital as anti-riot police stood by to ensure a peaceful  demo, organized by the Democratic platform comprising civilian  organizations and opposition parties.

In south west Haiti, the death of a Lavalas party activist at  Miragoane led to a violent attempt at reprisals, with party members  attempting to burn alive an opposition supporter. The victim was taken to hospital in serious condition.

Both sides have denied shooting the activist, each blaming the  other. The Haitian capital has seen mounting tension in recent months  as the campaign to remove former priest Aristide from office has  gathered momentum.

This week two protesters were killed and about 30  people were injured during protests. The unrest overshadowed celebrations on January 1 of the 200th  anniversary of Haiti's independence from France.

The opposition accuses Aristide of corruption and  mismanagement. The president still has two years of his five-year term to serve  and refuses to step down.

AFP