The World - News from Sept. 12, 1985

Haiti’s president-for-life, Jean-Claude Duvalier, has fired his powerful interior and security minister, the man most often blamed for repressive measures against government opponents. Duvalier announced on nationwide television that Roger Lafontant, once considered his most influential adviser, would be replaced by Francois Guillaume, ambassador to the Organization of American States. Duvalier also replaced his education and social affairs ministers. No reason was given for Lafontant’s dismissal, but the United States and human rights groups reportedly had sought his ouster.