Ex-mayor faces trial for visa fraud amid accusations of rights abuses

In March 2025, Jean Morose Viliena, a former mayor who served in the Haitian town of Les Irois, faces trial in the United States for allegedly lying on his visa application about his involvement in human rights abuses. Indicted in 2023, Viliena submitted an application where he claimed not to have participated in extrajudicial killings or violence against his fellow citizens. However, federal prosecutors have presented evidence indicating that while serving as mayor, he was implicated in violent acts against political rivals, including a 2007 incident where he was involved in the murder of a political opponent's brother. Repeatedly, the allegations suggest a pattern of using violence to suppress opposition and maintain power in his community. In 2008, it is claimed that Viliena and his allies assaulted individuals opposing him and attempted to intimidate a community radio station. This conduct led to an American jury finding him liable in a civil trial where he was ordered to pay $15.5 million in damages, highlighting the serious nature of the accusations against him. Viliena’s lead counsel has asserted his innocence and expressed a wish to present evidence in his defense during the ongoing legal proceedings. Meanwhile, the victims of these alleged acts, who currently live in hiding due to fears for their safety, emphasize their concerns for their families still residing in Haiti. This case underscores broader issues of governance and human rights in Haiti, raising questions about the safety of those who oppose political figures in the nation and the extent of justice served for victims of such violence. Given the seriousness of the charges and the potential implications it has for the Haitian community, the proceedings are closely monitored by human rights organizations seeking to uphold accountability.