Former Haitian leader Jean-Claude “Baby Doc” Duvalier has called for national reconciliation in his most extensive speech since he returned to the country on Sunday after 25 years in exile.
He said his surprise return had been prompted by last year’s earthquake and his desire to help rebuild the country.
Mr Duvalier also wanted “to express deep sorrow for all those who say they were victims of my government”.
He is being sued for torture and other crimes against humanity.
The lawsuit was filed on Wednesday by a former United Nations spokeswoman, Michele Montas, and three Haitians who were jailed during Mr Duvalier’s 1971-1986 rule.
