Swiss authorities say they have decided to turn over the assets of former Haitian dictator Jean-Claude Duvalier to the Haitian government.
The Swiss justice office - Federal Office of Justice - ruled the $6 million in funds must be used for "social or humanitarian projects to benefit the Haitian population."
The money has been frozen in Swiss bank accounts since Duvalier was ousted from office in 1986.
The Swiss justice office statement said the Duvalier family failed to prove the money is of lawful origin and is therefore, not entitled to it.
The family has 30 days to appeal the decision.
Duvalier, known as "Baby Doc," succeeded his father as Haiti's leader in 1971. He has been accused of stealing state funds while in charge of the government and is believed to be living in exile in France.
The Swiss justice office - Federal Office of Justice - ruled the $6 million in funds must be used for "social or humanitarian projects to benefit the Haitian population."
The money has been frozen in Swiss bank accounts since Duvalier was ousted from office in 1986.
The Swiss justice office statement said the Duvalier family failed to prove the money is of lawful origin and is therefore, not entitled to it.
The family has 30 days to appeal the decision.
Duvalier, known as "Baby Doc," succeeded his father as Haiti's leader in 1971. He has been accused of stealing state funds while in charge of the government and is believed to be living in exile in France.
Some information for this report was provided by AFP and AP
