And the Presidency Goes to......

As many people predicted, Michel Martelly has been officially declared the new president of Haiti. The results come nearly two weeks after the run-off elections between Martelly and Haiti's former first lady, Mirlande Manigat. According to the New York Times, Martelly won a whopping 68 percent of the votes while Manigat took home the remaining 32 percent. 

 Martelly being interviewed after elections

Martelly's popularity in Haiti didn't begin with his run for presidency. A former carnival singer, Martelly was known for singing songs that openly ridiculed politics and politicians. Also known as "Sweet Micky", Martelly was known for taking off his clothing and cursing during stage performances in various places such as hotels and casinos. 

Martelly's music style was a blend of Haitian music and other music such as compas, roots, and salsa. Some of Martelly's biggest hits include "Ooo La La", "Konpas Foret des Pins", and "Pa Manyen". He also has a few hits with the famous rapper Wyclef Jean, who is known in America for hits such as "Two Wrongs" featuring Claudette Ortiz and "911" featuring Mary J. Blige. Wyclef Jean, who was denied permission to run for president, became a big endorser of Martelly's campaign 

 

Martelly singing

 

Wyclef Jean (left), who heavily endorsed Martelly's campaign, celebrates with Martelly (right)

 Although Martelly has criticized the Haitian government in the past, he takes politics very seriously. Briefly apart of the Haitian army, the new president plans to bring back the Armed Forces of Haiti to establish law and order in the country. He also wants to reform agriculture and improve the delivery of humanitarian aid.

To improve his political image, Martelly has been in close contact with many international political consultants who are teaching him the in and outs of government. Martelly holds a conservative view and plans to do an anti-corruption crusade, claiming previous government officials wasted $900 million. 

Martelly is scheduled to take office in May of this year. He will share power with a prime minister appointed by Parliament. Let's hope Martelly does a good job of revamping Haiti.