Kenyan-Led Haiti Mission Advances to Pre-Deployment Stage, Confirms Minister
The Kenyan government is determined to proceed with the deployment of hundreds of police officers to Haiti, despite the increasing gang violence in the Caribbean nation. Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki announced on Monday that the mission to send approximately 1,000 police officers to Haiti is in the pre-deployment stage. He emphasized that laws and enforcement measures, including detention and arrests, have been finalized, addressing concerns that had previously led to a court blocking the deployment.
The Kenyan government has resolved all issues raised in court, clearing the way for the deployment. However, the exact departure date for the officers remains undisclosed. This commitment comes amid escalating chaos in Haiti, with Prime Minister Ariel Henry agreeing to resign and make way for a transitional authority in the face of mounting gang violence and anarchy.
A coalition of gangs attacked police stations and stormed prisons, prompting the need for international assistance. Prime Minister Henry’s attempt to sign a deal in Kenya regarding the deployment of an international security force was thwarted as his plane was prevented from landing due to sustained attacks at Haiti’s international airport.
In support of the UN-backed security force expected to be led by Kenya in Haiti, U.S. Secretary of State Blinken has pledged an additional $100 million. The commitment reflects the international community’s recognition of the urgent need to address the security challenges in Haiti and stabilize the situation. As Kenya prepares for the deployment, the coordination of efforts with the UN-backed force underscores the collaborative approach to tackling complex security issues on a global scale.
