The Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission in Haiti is encountering significant challenges as hundreds of Kenyan police officers report not receiving their full promised salaries for the past two months. The MSS, a UN-managed initiative, aims to support the Haitian National Police in combating gang violence that has overrun approximately 85% of the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area. The deployment of these international forces, including around 400 specialized Kenyan officers who arrived in June, is critical in addressing the growing threat from gangs. However, the lack of timely financial compensation has left many officers frustrated.
The MSS force, set to expand to 2,500 personnel, is being financed through a trust fund managed by the United Nations. Contributions from the United States, Canada, France, and Spain have fueled this fund, with the United States alone committing at least $380 million to support the mission. Despite these substantial financial backings, many Kenyan officers stationed in Haiti's capital are restricted to their base during non-working hours and have yet to receive the supplemental payments promised for their service abroad.
A Kenyan officer in Haiti, who preferred to remain anonymous, expressed the growing discontent among his colleagues.
"The officers feel frustrated after not having been paid for two months. And we hear that the money has already been sent to Kenya but they haven’t paid us, so please help us out," – A Kenyan officer in Haiti (requesting anonymity)
The Haitian capital is currently grappling with severe gang violence that has displaced approximately 600,000 residents. Around 2 million individuals live in constant fear of attacks in these gang-ravaged areas. The MSS mission intends to provide crucial support to local law enforcement agencies in restoring order and security to these distressed communities.
Despite the ongoing salary issues, the MSS has assured that the situation is under control and processes are being finalized to address the officers' welfare concerns.
"Therefore, there is nothing to worry about (regarding) welfare issues of the MSS officers, since mainstream processes have been finalized," – MSS
The MSS mission in Haiti is an essential step toward stabilizing a country plagued by violence and displacement. As the initiative progresses, ensuring that officers receive their due compensation will be vital for maintaining morale and operational effectiveness.
