Presidential elections in Haiti are scheduled for Dec. 17 and Aristide, who was returned to power last year in a U.S. military intervention, is constitutionally barred from seeking re-election.
However, in comments a week ago, Aristide said he "would not turn his back" on supporters who want him to remain in office to make up for the three years he spent in exile, sparking speculation that he would attempt to hold onto his position.
In an interview Thursday, Aristide put an end to such speculation, saying the misunderstanding had arisen because his controversial comments had been only partially quoted.
Aristide also confirmed that he will not accept a position in the new administration.
"I can serve without an official post," he said.
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