René Préval

File:Preval chavez05-09-2006b.jpg

René Préval

Name	René Préval
Birth name
Birth date	January 17, 1943
Birth place	Port-au-Prince, Haiti
Death date	March 3, 2017
Death place	Port-au-Prince, Haiti
Alma mater
Occupation	Politician
Years active
Organization
Known for	President of Haiti
Notable works
Spouse(s)
Website

René Garcia Préval (January 17, 1943 – March 3, 2017) was a Haitian politician who served as the President of Haiti on two non-consecutive terms, from 1996 to 2001 and from 2006 to 2011. He was the first elected head of state in Haitian history to serve a full term in office and then peacefully transfer power to a successor.

Early Life and Education

René Préval was born in Port-au-Prince, the capital of Haiti. He was the son of Claude Préval, an agronomist, and Carmen Sainvil. Préval spent part of his childhood in Belgium and the United States, where his father was posted as a diplomat. He returned to Haiti to complete his education and later studied agronomy at the College of Gembloux in Belgium.

Political Career

Préval's political career began in earnest when he became involved with the Lavalas Political Organization, a movement led by Jean-Bertrand Aristide. He served as Prime Minister of Haiti from February to October 1991 under President Aristide.

First Presidency (1996–2001)

Préval was elected President of Haiti in 1995 and took office on February 7, 1996. During his first term, he focused on economic reforms and infrastructure development. His administration faced significant challenges, including political instability and economic difficulties. Despite these challenges, Préval was able to implement some reforms, including the privatization of state-owned enterprises.

Second Presidency (2006–2011)

Préval was re-elected as President in 2006, following a period of political turmoil and the ousting of Aristide in 2004. His second term was marked by efforts to stabilize the country and rebuild its institutions. Préval's presidency was also defined by the devastating 2010 Haiti earthquake, which caused widespread destruction and loss of life. Préval worked with international partners to coordinate relief efforts and begin the process of reconstruction.

Legacy

René Préval is remembered for his pragmatic approach to governance and his efforts to promote stability and development in Haiti. He was a key figure in the country's political landscape during a tumultuous period and played a significant role in Haiti's democratic transition.

Personal Life

Préval was married three times and had two daughters. He was known for his reserved and pragmatic personality, often preferring to work behind the scenes rather than seek the spotlight.

Also see

• Jean-Bertrand Aristide
• 2010 Haiti earthquake
• Lavalas Political Organization
• Politics of Haiti