Security forces from Guatemala and El Salvador have arrived in Haiti to join a multinational mission tasked with addressing the country's persistent gang violence. This deployment marks a significant reinforcement of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, a United States and United Nations-backed initiative aimed at restoring stability and security in Haiti. Since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, the Haitian government has struggled to contain the escalating violence, compounded by natural disasters and an intensifying hunger crisis.
The United Nations Security Council sanctioned the MSS mission's launch in 2023, securing international support to bring peace to Haiti. The mission collaborates closely with the Haitian National Police to reestablish order, receiving significant backing from the United States, which pledged hundreds of millions of dollars in funding and resources. Commanded by hundreds of Kenyan police officers, the MSS faced delays as the Kenyan officers only managed to arrive in June last year.
"The most effective way to facilitate the total restoration of security and the establishment of lasting peace," said Normil Rameau, acting director general of the National Police.
The recent arrival of Guatemalan and Salvadoran forces is seen as a pivotal enhancement to these efforts. Godfrey Otunge, commander of the Kenyan troops within the MSS, extended a warm welcome to the new contingents on Friday, commending their collaboration with the Haitian government.
"We don’t take it for granted. We have a prime minister who is also our friend," noted Otunge, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation.
Haiti's ongoing turmoil has not been without challenges. In October, gangs targeted US Embassy vehicles with gunfire, leading to an emergency evacuation of 20 embassy staffers. Furthermore, in November, the US civil aviation regulator grounded all flights to Haiti after three jets from US-based airlines were hit by bullets while flying over Port-au-Prince. These incidents underscore the urgency and complexity of the security situation in the region.
Despite these setbacks, the Haitian National Police remains committed to fostering better relations with the local population, aiming to create what they describe as a "marriage" between law enforcement and the community. This strategy is crucial for building trust and ensuring long-term peace.
