Showbiz
Wyclef Jean honoured for making Haiti 'proud'
Published Friday, Jul 22 2011, 14:27 BST | By Justin Harp | Add comment
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The 'Killing Me Softly' singer was named as a Grand Officer of the National Order of Honour and Merit during a ceremony held in Port-au-Prince earlier this week.
President Martelly praised Wyclef for his role in raising funds and awareness for Haiti following a January 2010 earthquake that destroyed some of the island nation's infrastructure.
Martelly told Jean during the gala: "You are one of the Haitians who make us proud."
The National Order of Honour and Merit was established in 1926 and has been awarded to both Haitian nationals and foreigners for their contributions to politics and culture.
Jean, a Haitian native who moved to the US at age 9, had attempted to run against Martelly in the country's recent presidential election.
After an electoral council ruled that Jean was ineligible to run for office, the musician endorsed Martelly and even campaigned for the politician.
The former Fugee was shot in the hand during a campaign event in Haiti in March, later describing that he felt "shock and awe" as a bullet pierced his body.
> Pras admits 'rift' with Wyclef Jean over Haiti
Watch Wyclef Jean's music video for 'If I Was President' below:
More: Wyclef Jean, Showbiz
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