Originally: Haitian Students Blame Government for Attacks on Radio Stations
Haitian university students have again rallied in Port-au-Prince in the latest protest against President Jean-Bertrand Aristide.
The demonstrators took to the streets Thursday, accusing the government of involvement in a recent attack against about half a dozen radio stations. They say the Aristide administration is trying to stop the opposition movement by muzzling the press.
On Tuesday, vandals armed with sledgehammers smashed the antennas of seven privately-owned radio stations, forcing them off the air. Mr. Aristide has been quoted as saying the press should be able to work without hindrance.
Meanwhile, the European Union is urging Haiti’s political leaders to resume dialogue to calm unrest in the impoverished Caribbean nation.
The 15-member bloc said in a statement Thursday that such talks could be held either directly or through the mediation of local churches or other helpful and credible parties.
The EU also said that at a time when Haiti no longer has a legislative assembly, such dialogue alone can restore civil peace.
On Monday, parliamentary activity in Haiti came to a halt as the terms of most legislators expired without agreement on when to hold new elections.
Haiti has been mired in turmoil since the 2000 legislative elections which the opposition says were rigged. The unresolved dispute has prevented a new ballot from being held.
Opposition lawmakers have refused to take part in elections until President Aristide steps down.
The president insists he will serve out his term, which ends in 2006. Mr. Aristide also pledges to hold legislative elections within six months – a move dismissed by his opponents.