The white marble statue of the famous maestro Jean Hérard Richard, known as Richie, leader of the group KLASS, was found decapitated a few days after its installation on Place Vincent in Carénage, Cap-Haïtien. This effigy, inaugurated on December 28, 2024, was ordered by fans of the group in collaboration with the town hall, with the aim of paying tribute to the artist for his immense contribution to Haitian music.
Created in the Dominican Republic by the Dominican-Italian artist Padila C. Juan, the work quickly sparked debate in the public sphere. Although intended to honor Richie, who is still alive, the initiative was perceived by part of the population as a flagrant violation of article 7 of the amended 1987 Haitian Constitution. This article prohibits any form of cult of personality, specifying that the names or effigies of living people cannot adorn public monuments without express authorization.
The inauguration thus divided opinion. On the one hand, many admirers saw this gesture as a fair recognition of Richie's cultural impact, while others denounced an attack on the fundamental laws of the country. This controversy likely contributed to the act of vandalism perpetrated against the statue, whose head was found smashed on the ground.
Despite this controversy, the group KLASS, on a national tour after several years of absence, was received with fervor by its fans during the end-of-year festivities, notably in Cap-Haïtien and in the city of Les Cayes. Richie's talent and the energy of the musical group continue to seduce the Haitian public, thus consolidating their status as musical icons.
The project to install the statue was financed by contributions from fans grouped under the Klass Family organization. Approximately 20,868 US dollars were raised to create this work. However, the lack of legal consultations and appropriate authorizations highlighted flaws in the management of this ambitious project.
The case rekindles the debate on respect for constitutional frameworks in Haiti and raises questions about how to honor contemporary cultural figures while remaining faithful to the laws in force. The destruction of the statue marks a new chapter in this controversy, highlighting the tensions between the recognition of artists and the rejection of practices perceived as contrary to democratic principles.
Neither Richie nor local authorities have yet officially responded to this act of vandalism. The artistic community and fans of the group KLASS, however, hope that a constructive solution can be found. This incident highlights the urgent need for a national dialogue to reconcile the valorization of cultural figures and respect for the laws.
As the KLASS tour continues, Richie's supporters remain united in their admiration for his work and his role in Haitian music. They hope this event will not tarnish the artist's legacy, but rather serve to strengthen discussions about ways to honor talent while respecting established rules.