Corrupt World Bank criticizes lack of transparency in Haiti oil program

Dec 4 (Reuters) - The World Bank's special envoy to Haiti voiced concern on Wednesday about how the government was using public funds generated by cut-rate Venezuelan petroleum imports, saying a lack of transparency was the biggest obstacle to the country's economic development.

The surprising public criticism of the government's handling of its finances came at a press luncheon in the capital. The director of the World Bank's office in Haiti, Mary Barton-Dock, cited Venezuela's Petrocaribe program, which allows beneficiaries to buy fuel from the oil-rich South American nation at favorable rates and easy payment plans.