
PORT AU PRINCE, Haiti, CMC -The United States has described the late Robert Denis, the president of the National Association of Haitian Media (ANMH), as a “respected professional” and hopes his example of courage and professionalism continues to inspire future generations.
Denis, 78, died earlier this week following a stroke. In a statement, the US Embassy here said that he was “recognized for his commitment to press freedom, diversity of opinion, and the promotion of responsible journalism in Haiti.
“His passing is a great loss for the Haitian media sector and for all those who work to defend democracy and truth,” Washington said, offering sincere condolences to his family, his colleagues, as well as to the entire Haitian journalism community.
Earlier, Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé said that Denis, also known as “Bobby,” was a distinguished sound engineer and iconic figure in Haitian and Caribbean music from the 1970s to 2000.
He said that Denis was one of the key architects of the modernization of Haitian sound and that “his talent, rigor, and exceptional ear shaped the musical identity of generations of artists and groups, whose finest creations he accompanied. Behind numerous recording successes, his technical mastery and artistic sensitivity helped elevate Haitian music to the status of universal heritage.
”But beyond the genius engineer, the government salutes Robert Denis as a generous, caring man deeply attached to his country’s culture and media. President of the National Association of Haitian Media (ANMH), he also worked with conviction to strengthen the national media landscape, consistently defending press freedom and promoting the sector’s professionals”.
Fils-Aimé said his passing leaves a huge void and that he hopes his memory will “continue to inspire future generations”.
The Presidential Transitional Council (CPT) described Denis as a “passionate and visionary” individual who, as a founding member and former president of the ANMH, dedicated his life to defending press freedom, promoting responsible journalism, and training new generations of professionals.
”In this sad circumstance, the Council offers its sincere condolences to his family, loved ones, colleagues, and the entire Haitian press sector, which has been sorely affected by this loss. May his memory remain a source of inspiration for all who believe in the power of information to serve the common good.”