Wyclef Jean aware of assassination threat

Wyclef Jean has admitted that he risks being assassinated while campaigning in the slums of Haiti to become president of the country.

The musician, who claims that he was inspired to run for office after witnessing the devastating effects of the January earthquake in his native country, confessed that he will fear for his safety when he eventually goes on the campaign trail as Haiti has a history of political violence.

However, the former Fugees star argued that his ideals and aspirations are worth endangering his life for.

"You have two choices," he explained to Contact Music. "Either sit back thinking of the danger or do something to move your country forward.

"Assassination is always a possibility but I'd rather die trying to achieve something than die doing nothing... I'm telling you right now, brother, I'm going to fight for the rights of the Haitian people so they can get their justice.

"At times, to be honest, I think, 'What am I doing?' But I can hear the voice of youth drafting me. When I'm on the ground, they say to me, 'Clef, you're our last hope.' They feel close to me because I speak their language."

Jean's controversial presidential campaign has already received criticism in the last week from Hollywood star Sean Penn and fellow Fugees member Pras Michel.