January 8, 2025
A few days after its installation in Place Vincent in Carénage, Cap-Haïtien, the white marble statue of Maestro Jean Hérard Richard, better known as Richie, was found beheaded. This monument, erected to honor the maestro of the group KLASS, became the target of vandalism, reigniting a controversy about the legality of the initiative.
A Controversial Artistic Tribute:
Installed on December 28, the statue aimed to celebrate Richie’s contributions to Haitian music. Created in the Dominican Republic by Dominican-Italian artist Padila C. Juan, the effigy did not receive unanimous approval. While some praised the gesture as a symbolic act honoring an artist who has touched multiple generations, others criticized it as a violation of Article 7 of Haiti’s amended 1987 Constitution. The article prohibits the glorification of living individuals in public monuments and requires prior approval from the National Assembly for monuments dedicated to deceased figures.
Divided Opinions:
The statue quickly sparked heated debates within the community. For some, the tribute to Richie was legitimate—a gesture of gratitude for his cultural influence. “Richie is a symbol of our culture; he deserves this recognition,” expressed a fan of KLASS. Others, however, argued that the act violated republican principles, setting a dangerous precedent for upholding the law. “We cannot break the law to celebrate an artist, no matter how exceptional they are,” said a local intellectual. These opposing views fueled tensions surrounding the statue, which was vandalized shortly after its inauguration.
The Act of Vandalism and Its Implications:
The vandalism went beyond damaging the effigy; it reignited the debate on respecting the rule of law in Haiti. What was meant to be a symbol of recognition became a point of contention, highlighting the country’s struggles to reconcile popular initiatives with constitutional compliance.
Local authorities quickly condemned the act. The Cap-Haïtien mayor’s office expressed its sadness and promised an investigation to identify those responsible. However, beyond the physical destruction, the incident raises broader questions: How far should public recognition go while respecting constitutional principles? How can such controversies be prevented from further weakening national unity?
KLASS and Richie: A Deep Connection with Fans:
Despite the controversy, KLASS remains a cornerstone of Haitian music. Richie and his band recently captivated audiences with memorable performances in Cap-Haïtien and Les Cayes. These events have strengthened the bond between the group and its fans across the country, solidifying their place in the hearts of Haitians.
Reflections on the Future of Public Monuments in Haiti:
This incident raises larger questions about managing national symbols in Haiti. Some are calling for stricter regulations on public monuments, while others believe such grassroots initiatives should be encouraged—but always within the boundaries of the law. The vandalism of Richie’s statue is not merely an act of physical damage; it opens a deeper debate about Haiti’s approach to collective memory, constitutional respect, and law enforcement in a context where national unity remains a significant challenge.
Republished in extenso from Le Placentin | Photo: Mako Love