Latest Update on the case of Pere Jean-Juste, now incarcerated in the National Penitentiary, in Haiti July 24, 2005

July 24th

by Bill Quigley

“My body is in prison, but my soul is free.”
Fr. Gerard Jean-Juste from prison

Fr. Gerard Jean-Juste is being held in isolation in the Haitian National Penitentiary. I tried twice to visit but was not allowed. Likewise his Bishop tried to visit him but was not allowed. I was able to deliver his prayer book and some clothes and send a note in to him. He sent a note back that included the following:

“Avoka Bill, Thanks a lot to everyone for everything. I am in isolation section room I-05. I am really isolated but not from God. In spirit I remain together with you all. Keep the food program running. Justice shall prevail.
God’s blessings,
GJJ.”

The newest reported charges against Fr. Gerry are “public denunciation” and “inciting to violence.” The second charge is the same one that the unelected government has had pending against the former prime minister of Haiti, Yvon Neptune, who has been in prison for over a year with no trial in sight. These charges are as groundless as the prior ones - but are still not in writing and will probably change again.