Groups call to prosecute Duvalier in Haiti

Human rights groups today urged Haiti to prosecute former dictator Jean-Claude “Baby Doc” Duvalier following his surprise return to the country.

Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch said Duvalier should be held accountable for the torture and killing of civilians under his rule.

Amnesty said rights violations were widespread during his 15 years in power.

Duvalier abruptly returned to Haiti yesterday after being forced from power following a popular uprising in 1986.

His arrival came as Haiti is struggling with a political crisis, cholera epidemic and stalled earthquake reconstruction.

President Rene Preval said in 2007 that Duvalier would face justice if he returned.