Former Haitian dictator Jean-Claude Duvalier has appealed for public sympathy as he faces corruption charges and human rights investigations. Known as “Baby Doc,” Duvalier returned to Haiti last week 25 years after a popular uprising forced him into exile. On Friday, Duvalier said he feels “sadness” for those he says “are recognized” as victims of his government.

Jean-Claude Duvalier: “I take this opportunity to express again, one more time, my deepest sadness toward my compatriots who are recognized as being victims under my government.”

While Duvalier claims he’s come back to help Haiti rebuild, critics say he’s making a last-ditch attempt to recoup some $6 million in a frozen Swiss bank account. A Swedish law passed in response to Duvalier’s long-term attempt to withdraw the funds kicks in next month. Duvalier would only be able to evade it by entering and leaving Haiti without prosecution.