Rapper Wyclef Jean continues to deny any improprieties of funds raised by his charity foundation, Yele Haiti. Breaking down in tears, Wyclef denied reports that he has used money donated to the organization for personal gains. Jean gave an impassioned defense of the 12-year-old charity, which has received more than $2 million in donations in just a few days, but is accused of dodging taxes and using donated funds to pay board members.
“My dad always told me, if you’re a man with a clear conscience, speak with a clear conscience and the world will know,” he said. “Have we made mistakes before? Yes. Did I ever use Yele money for personal benefit? Absolutely not.”
Jean was born in Haiti but left the island nation for New York as a child. He later formed The Fugees with his cousin Pras and vocalist Lauren Hill. The group is considered one of the most successful of the ’90s.