Wyclef Jean has formerly registered as a presidential candidate in his home country of Haiti.

The former Fugees star announced his intention to stand at an electoral council office in the capital Port-au-Prince on Thursday (August 5).

"It's a moment in time and in history," Jean told the Associated Press. "It's very emotional."

The US-based singer will still need to prove his is eligible to run for president. Requirements include never having held foreign citizenship.

Jean is currently a US resident, but claims his role as ambassador for the country makes him eligible.

The country's next president will be faced with the task of continuing the efforts to build Haiti following the devastating earthquake in January.

(by Jason Gregory)