René Préval

RenéPréval & GWBush 2007May08

File:Preval chavez05-09-2006b.jpg

Preval chavez05-09-2006b

Barack Obama on the phone in the Oval Office with René Préval 2010-01-15

René Garcia Préval (17 January 1943 – 3 March 2017) was a Haitian politician and agronomist who served as the President of Haiti on two non-consecutive occasions, 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 be re-elected to another non-consecutive term.

Early Life and Education

René Préval was born in Port-au-Prince, the capital of Haiti. He studied agronomy at the Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech in Belgium and later continued his studies in Geothermal energy at the University of Pisa in Italy.

Political Career

Préval's political career began when he was appointed as the Prime Minister of Haiti in 1991 under President Jean-Bertrand Aristide. His term was cut short by a military coup that ousted Aristide.

First Presidency (1996-2001)

Préval was elected President of Haiti in 1996, succeeding Jean-Bertrand Aristide. During his first term, he focused on economic reforms and infrastructure development. His administration faced significant challenges, including political instability and economic difficulties.

Second Presidency (2006-2011)

Préval was re-elected as President in 2006. His second term was marked by efforts to rebuild the country following the devastating 2010 Haiti earthquake. He worked closely with international organizations to coordinate relief efforts and reconstruction projects.

Personal Life

Préval was known for his modest lifestyle and dedication to public service. He was married twice and had children. He passed away on 3 March 2017 in Port-au-Prince.

Legacy

René Préval is remembered for his contributions to Haitian politics and his efforts to stabilize the country during turbulent times. His leadership during the aftermath of the 2010 earthquake was particularly notable.

See Also

• Jean-Bertrand Aristide
• 2010 Haiti earthquake
• Lespwa
• Prime Minister of Haiti
• President of Haiti